Marisa Cundari

Marisa was the embodiment of empathy. It was that quality that drew people to her. People who met her described her as being sweet, caring, and considerate, all attributes of empathy. She was always able to see the beauty in everything that surrounded her and quite often thanked God for all the beautiful things that had been given to man.

Marisa was always genuinely concerned about people, animals and nature in general and would seek any opportunity to improve life for anyone and anything that appeared to be in distress. Above all, she placed the needs of those who surrounded her above her own. True to her nature, when she was told that radiation was a necessary part of her therapy, she was concerned that she would be radioactive and therefore, be a danger to others and to her cat. In fact, the opposite would be true since her immune system would be severely impacted.

Above all else, Marisa was a devoted mother of 3 children Silvia, Antonio and Stefano. Together with her knowledge of early childhood education she mixed elements of her personality and genuine love of her children to raise three responsible and caring adults. Her two sons, Antonio and Stefano, completely dedicated themselves to Marisa during the period of her brief but intense struggle with her disease. They were always by her bedside and would take turns sleeping at the hospital overnight. They also closely monitored all the care and medications that were being administered by the nursing staff. The nurses all commented on her sons’ commitment and devotion. This is all a tribute to Marisa and her ability to impart her characteristics onto her children. Unfortunately, her daughter, Silvia, was in Italy and was unable to travel to Canada to be with her mother, but she spoke to Marisa many times daily. Silvia had to remain in Italy because she was going to have a baby in early August. Undoubtedly, as Silvia practices what she has learned from her mother baby Giuseppe will also reap the benefits of his Nonna’s love.

Marisa had an exuberant love for life that came through in her smile and sense of humour. She was always ready for new adventures, especially if it involved espresso and pastries. Marisa had a great appreciation for the arts, be it theatre, painting, sculpture or music. Marisa would never pass up the opportunity to dance, preferring the upbeat rhythms of Latin American music.

Nature held a special place in her heart, namely small wild animals and brightly coloured flowers. Marisa would sit by the window endlessly watching the arrival of birds at her birdfeeder. It really didn’t matter what birds came as long as they came, but she did get particularly excited about cardinals. However, she was disappointed that Canada geese wouldn’t land in her backyard where she could care for them. The only time she would get upset at her cat, Ciccio, was when he would lurk below the bird feeder, but otherwise he was an important part of her “family”.

All of those who were privileged to have known Marisa in her too brief life will be changed in some way and will never forget her.