Giovanna D'Antonio

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Giovanna (Veri) D’Antonio on April 4, 2025. She was extraordinary at levels beyond comprehension. Married to our father Ettore D’Antonio for 67 years, they built a beautiful life here in Canada after they immigrated from Italy. Our Dad passed away in 2021. We are three children: Julio (JoAnn), Marisa (John Lesar) and Rita. As a mother, her love and devotion to family was felt deeply in each of our lives and the lives of her grandchildren; Jason, Stephen (Jennifer), Sebastiano, Joel, Samantha, Kate and Joseph. She will be deeply missed by her sisters Iolanda,Teresa and Carmine. She is predeceased by her brother Giuseppe and sisters Virginia and Giovenella. Her daughter in law Nina (Eric) held a special place in her heart. Mom treasured so many relationships from the many friends and relatives, to her dear neighbours and truly anyone she encountered. Mom was adored by so many throughout her life.

Mom’s food was fantastic; made with love and always TOO MUCH. Years of basement parties, family dinners, picnics, reunions and just gathering to eat was Mom’s happy place. Unbelievable platters of food, trays of cookies, traditional Christmas and Easter meals that she prepared with absolute love. Even during her final hours, she spoke about preparing food. Nonna’s sauce was out of this world and we enjoyed many feasts. We feel comfort knowing she is now enjoying the greatest banquet of all!

Mom had such a way of leaving people awestruck with her dynamic personality. Extraordinary does not even begin to describe this exceptional woman. She worked hard, she played hard and she ate well. Being with people filled her soul with joy. We want to thank all of you who brought this joy to our mother’s life. She loved you, all of you and wanted all of you to be happy. We would like to leave you with the words our mother always said to us, “GO…‘JOY YOU LIFE!” She wanted you to get out there, be happy and enjoy life. She certainly did. Thank you mom for modelling a truly joyful life!

Funeral services are as follows:

Visitation on Tuesday April 8, 2025, 5-8 p.m. at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home - Hart Chapel Location.

Funeral Mass on Wednesday April 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish, 409 Paisley Rd, Guelph, ON.

Interment will take place at Marymount Cemetery, 5400 Hwy 6, Ariss, ON.

A reception is to follow.

We are so grateful to the medical community that has supported mom on her journey this last year. Thank you to the PSWs, doctors, pharmacists, nurses and the incredible palliative care teams at both Bayshore and Guelph General Hospital. In lieu of flowers, mom asked for Donations to Diabetes Canada.