Elisabetta Furlano

Elisabetta Furlano, 88, of Toronto, Ontario, passes away on February 17, 2025.

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elisabetta Furlano on February 17, 2025, at 9:07 AM at Mackenzie Health Hospital in Richmond Hill, Ontario. She was 88 years old.

 Elisabetta was born on November 9, 1936, in Vallelonga, Catanzaro, Calabria, Italy, to Domenico Rizzuto and Caterina Ierullo. She was one of nine siblings and grew up in a home filled with love, tradition, and a strong sense of family. Born during a difficult period in Italy, just before the outbreak of World War II, Elisabetta’s early years were shaped by the hardships and resilience of those times. Through challenges and uncertainty, she learned the values of perseverance, generosity, and deep familial love—principles that would guide her throughout her life. On January 19, 1957, she married, Antonio Furlano, and together they built a beautiful family. They shared 66 years of marriage. In June 1969, Elisabetta made the courageous journey to Canada, following Antonio, who had immigrated earlier to establish a better future for their family. With six young children in tow, she embraced the challenges of a new country, building a home filled with warmth, and tradition. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family remained strong and united, instilling in them the values of hard work, kindness, and devotion.

Elisabetta was the beloved wife of Antonio Furlano, who passed away on June 24, 2023. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love, she was the heart of her family, always ensuring that everyone remained connected regardless of differences. She had a passion for cooking, especially when preparing meals for large family gatherings. Her home was always filled with the comforting aroma of her delicious dishes, each one made with love. No one ever left her home empty-handed—whether it was fresh cookies, a warm meal, or simply the feeling of being deeply cared for. She took immense joy in catering to her 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, ensuring they were well-fed, well-loved, and always surrounded by warmth. She also shared a playful rivalry with Antonio, competing over who had the greener thumb in their beloved garden. Their passion for growing food and flowers was a testament to their love, laughter, and shared life together. 

Elisabetta is survived by her loving children:  Nicola Furlano and his wife Antonietta Furlano, Domenico Furlano and his wife Josie Furlano,  Caterina Noble and her husband Robert Noble, Maria Caron and her husband Joe Caron, Antonietta Ingham and her husband Donald Ingham,  Rosa Nyman and her husband Darren Nyman. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Antonio Furlano, and her dear son, Cesare Furlano. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Ward Funeral Home, Woodbridge Chapel, 4671 Highway #7, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4L 1S6, with her Funeral Service to be held at 12 noon.  Following the service, Elisabetta will be laid to rest at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, located at 7300 Highway 27, Woodbridge, Ontario. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in her honor. Elisabetta will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love, wisdom, and joy she brought into the lives of everyone who knew her. 

Click HERE to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society