Lucy Pestrin

Lucy Pestrin

December 13th, 1942 – October 18th, 2023.

Lucy Pestrin (Mior) was born on December 13, 1942, in the small town of St. Vito, Italy. She lived with her father Erminio and mother Giuseppina Mior, sister Franca DeBasiso, and brother Joseph. At the age of 12, in 1954, Lucy and family immigrated to Toronto, Ontario.

Growing up as an immigrant was not without its challenges, but Lucy made the most of it. Working various jobs as an assistant to a dental hygienist, pharmacist, and eventually a secretary at the Italian Trade Commissioners Office, Lucy relied on her quick wit, perseverance, and resourcefulness.

In 1963, Lucy met her husband Mario Pestrin and their romance blossomed, marrying on April 24, 1965. Lucy embraced her role as a mother, welcoming son Glen in 1966, daughter Sonia in 1968, and proudly declaring herself a well-established domestic engineer.

One of Lucy’s greatest passions was cooking. She loved to venture into the world of spices and global cuisines, always adding the “a la Lucy” trademark. Whether it was crafting a colossal 20-pound lasagna or cooking her outstanding “brown soup”, her true rewards where the smiles and praises from family and friends.

In her moments of solitude, Lucy could often be found either immersed in classic films from yesteryears or tending to her tranquil garden, two passions that brought her solace and joy.

Lucy and Mario loved to travel and shared that passion with their children, and friends. Lucy enjoyed adventures in China, Africa, Europe and countless trips to the southern US and the Caribbean. She was always open to new cultural experiences. Her warm smile, open heart, and sarcastic humor easily bridged any language or cultural barrier. When asked to describe her trips, she would often reply, "It didn't suck."

Lucy's family grew to include Glen's wife, Renee Durham, in 1997, and Sonia's husband, Rob Nicolucci, in 1999. The family continued to expand, reaching a total of 13 members. Lucy's pride and joy was her grandchildren: Olivia, Benjamin, Eva, Alex, Maxwell, Jack, and Simon. They brought great joy to “Noni” as she was affectionately known. She cherished seeing them explore their lives and the world. Although Noni supported her grandchildren in their adventures, they were terribly missed at the traditional Sunday dinners. Lucy could not have been prouder of her family, as they all grew into unique and exceptional individual.

As time passed, Lucy faced various health issues, ultimately with a cancer diagnosis in September 2023. She peacefully passed away in her sleep on October 18th, 2023.

Lucy's spirit and signature sarcasm will be remembered through her friends, family, and precious grandchildren.

If desired, donations in Lucy Pestrin's name to the Princess Margaret Foundation or to the Humber River Regional Hospital (HRRH - Palliative Care Unit) would be appreciated by the family.

Click Here to Donate to Princess Margaret Foundation


Click Here to Donate to HRRH – Palliative Care Unit