Rosina Furgiuele

In Loving Memory of Rosina Furgiuele (Mandarino)

February 17, 1922 – November 20, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Rosina Furgiuele (Mandarino) on November 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 102.

Born in Rende, Cosenza, Italy to Eugenio Mandarino and Concetta (Cosentino), she grew up with a deep commitment to family and the Catholic faith. She spoke fondly of growing up on a farm with her brother and sisters, and her love of the Calabrian fruit and olive trees. She met her husband, Giovanni Furgiuele, at a town festival and it was love at first sight. They married in 1941 and shared 45 years together. The first 3 of their 5 children were born in Rende - Maria, Lida (late Valerio) and the late Marcella (Nicola).

In 1956 Rosina bravely crossed the Atlantic, travelling by ship alone with her 3 children to join Giovanni in Toronto, Canada. She embraced her new life in Canada and was very proud of her broken English. In Toronto they had 2 more children, Carlo (Janet) and Anna, and their family was complete.

A true matriarch, Rosina was completely devoted to and the Queen of her family. She not only nurtured her children with endless love and unwavering support but, after becoming a widow in 1986, dedicated the rest of her life to being “Nonna Rosina” to her 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Nothing brought her more pride and joy than her family.

Rosina was a staple in the All Saints Church and Etobicoke community. She attended mass every morning, well into her 90s. Her generosity knew no bounds and her home was always open – a safe space filled with warm hugs, laughter, and the delicious smell of her Italian cooking. Her sarcastic sense of humour always had you belly laughing and shone through even in her later years with dementia. She loved with all her heart and found joy in providing for and connecting with others, and in return was loved by all who knew her. Everyone was welcome and, to her, everyone was family.

Visitation will take place at the Ward Funeral Home – Weston Chapel (2035 Weston Road) on Thursday, November 28 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. Funeral Mass to be celebrated at All Saints Roman Catholic Church (1415 Royal York Road) on Friday, November 29 at 9:30 am. Entombment to follow at Prospect Cemetery (1450 St Clair Ave West).

In lieu of flowers, Rosina had requested donations be made in her life’s honour to either the Alzheimer Society or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Click here to donate to Alzheimer's Canada or The Canadian Cancer Society