Rosalia Messina

Rosalia "Lia" Messina

August 5, 1971 - January 1, 2025

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Whether you met Lia recently or have known her all your life, you were instantly touched by her joie de vivre and vibrant spirit. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel better, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Lia’s incredible sense of style was matched only by her radiant smile and warm personality, which lit up every room she entered. She lived life to the fullest, sharing an unwavering, unconditional love for her late husband, Ben van der Ham. Lia found comfort in knowing that he and her beloved father, Ignazio Messina, were waiting to welcome her.

A cherished friend to many, Lia’s kindness extended to her colleagues at Queen’s Park and Eaton, her neighbors in Toronto and Perth, her church groups, the Mount Sinai Hospital community, and her closest friends: Anna, Kyoko and Farzana. She treasured the bond she shared with her cousin-sister Milena and held a special place in her heart for countless others. A devoted Toronto Raptors fan, she was also the number-one admirer of Darcy Tucker and Rick Springfield, both of whom sent her messages of encouragement this Christmas.

As a proud middle sibling, Lia championed the role with humor and affection. She was a devoted sister to Richard (Cathy) and Deborah (Claudio), and a beloved sister-in-law to Bill, Gary (Vicky), Chris (Kim), Paul (Janice), and Rose-Marie (Stephen). She shared a special bond with her mother-in-law, Corry, and adored her nieces and nephews: Simona, Thea, Katia, Ava, Stella, Mikayla, Will, Samantha, Juliana, April, Sophie, Nicholas, Naomi, and Aubrielle. Lia’s family cherished her as much as she cherished them, benefitting from her love, wisdom, and infectious spirit.

Faced with numerous challenges, Lia’s deep faith, perseverance, and hope carried her through. She inspired everyone with her courage, exemplified when she recently visited Cathy’s class.  A student asked why she got cancer and Lia responded with characteristic grace: “To help others in need and to help myself appreciate what is important.” Her strength and optimism were a constant source of support for other patients battling MS and cancer.

In her final months, Lia returned to the family home, where she was lovingly cared for by her devoted mother, Lucia, whose steadfast support was a cornerstone of Lia’s life. On Christmas Eve, “Princess” Lia joined the family for a festive dinner filled with fun games, karaoke, and gift exchanges, participating fully and beaming with joy. 

Lia passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025 surrounded by her family. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the care team on the 6th floor of Mount Sinai Hospital and the Vaughan Hospice Team for their compassionate support.

Friends are invited to visit the family at Ward Funeral Home (4671 Highway 7, Woodbridge) on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place at Saint Clare of Assisi Church (150 St. Francis Avenue, Woodbridge) on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. Entombment will follow at Prospect Cemetery (1450 St. Clair Ave W, Toronto). The Mass will also be livestreamed through Ward’s website.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Lia may be made to the Daily Bread Food Bank. Lia’s extraordinary spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Click here to donate to the Daily Bread Food Bank