Maria Furlan

MARIA FURLAN (nee. Dozzo)

It is with great sadness that the family of Maria Furlan (nee. Dozzo) announces her peaceful passing at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, surrounded by her family, on the afternoon of June 24th, 2023. Maria was born in Frisanco, a town located in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy, on December 9th, 1942, from Alberto & Rina Dozzo, and was the dearest sister to her surviving brother, Mario, and her predeceased sister, Gina. Maria was a beloved wife to her husband of 61 years, Ernesto, who has been by her side as her biggest supporter and advocate while she fought against her battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Together they raised their sons Denis (Diana) and Fabio (Annamaria), who will remember their mother’s caring nature and devotion to the family. Maria was also a cherished grandmother (Nonna) to Lucas (Sabrina), Nevis, Andrew, Alyssa, and a proud great-grandmother (Bisnonna) to Margaret.

In 1958, Maria arrived in Canada with her parents on her 16th birthday, marking the start of many new beginnings in her future. She was a quiet woman who valued the gift of her family, and while Maria deeply loved her husband, she adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild with her whole heart. Often being described as having a sparkle in her eye every time she got to see them and spend time with them. A memory they will fondly treasure as they reflect on fruit picking in the backyard, making gnocchi, going to the park, and their annual shopping trip with her.

Maria’s laugh was effortlessly sincere, and she had a candid sense of humour that always brought on laughter from those around her. She was a strong lady with a soft-spoken voice who was patient, understanding and gentle. Maria always had a lending ear and a welcoming embrace to those she cared for. She was a sweet lady with a sweet tooth and often expressed her inner child by indulging in ice cream, chocolate or a slice of panettone. Maria found delight in the simple pleasures life had to offer. Whether watching birds in her garden or appreciating the flowers in and around her home, Maria made memories everywhere she went. She was a humble woman of grace, strength, and integrity who will be dearly missed by her family, close relatives, and friends.

The family wishes to acknowledge Maria’s care team at home and at Sunnybrook. As well as dedicating a special thank you to her personal caregivers, Juana, Judy, and Nancy, for their compassion and the help they provided.