We Remember

BALDUCCI, Gemma (née LaPorta)

February 1, 1940 — March 17, 2025

In memory of our beloved Gemma Balducci, a woman whose love, resilience, and generosity touched all who knew her.

Gemma was born in 1940 in Goriano Sicoli, to Lorenzo and Carinda LaPorta. As their only daughter and the cherished middle sibling between her brothers, Rocco and Oscar, she grew up embodying the deep love and devotion that would define her life.

It was through her brother Rocco that Gemma met Baldo. Their playful banter and deep connection became the foundation of a beautiful partnership. On February 2, 1959, they married, beginning a journey that would span 66 years of love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

Shortly after their wedding, Baldo left for Canada to build a future for their growing family, returning to Italy after the birth of their first child, Susanna. In the years that followed, their family grew to include Antonietta and Lamberto. Gemma, with her characteristic strength and selflessness, raised their young children on her own for extended periods while Baldo laid the groundwork for their new life. In 1966, the family moved to North Vancouver, embracing new opportunities while holding tightly to their Italian roots.

Gemma balanced hard work with dedication to her family. She took housekeeping jobs while her children were at school and learned to speak English by watching Sesame Street and soap operas. A gifted cook, she filled her kitchen—and hearts—with warmth and incredible dishes. Whether it was her legendary pizza, minestrone soup, fettina, or her homemade pastas like gnocchi and cannelloni, Gemma’s table was always a place of comfort and connection.

More than anything, Gemma loved fiercely. Her kindness transformed strangers into friends and friends into family. Her resilience in the face of life’s challenges was a testament to her strength, and she met every obstacle with grace and determination. A skilled seamstress, jewellery maker, and an undefeated champion at Italian card games, she brought joy into every room she entered. But above all, she was the heart of her family—a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud nonna and bisnonna, and the foundation upon which generations were built.

Gemma is survived by her beloved husband, Baldo; her children, Susanna (Ross) and Lamberto (April); her grandchildren, Sara, Stefania (Mauro), Romualdo (Anastasia), Alexandra (Kyle), Daniela (Rob), Lorenzo, and Isabella; and her great-grandchildren, Paulo, Iole, Nicola, Violet, Cecil, Coast, and Skye. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Though she has left this world, Gemma’s love, wisdom, and traditions will continue to live on through her family and the countless lives she touched. Her legacy is one of strength, passion, and the simple joys of a meal shared with those we hold dear.

Rest in peace, Gemma. You will always be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of BC.

There will be an opportunity in Kelowna to pay last respects and visit with the family at a Prayer Service on TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM, in the chapel of Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.

A Funeral Service will be held on THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025, at 11:30 AM, located at the Garden of Gethsemane Roman Catholic Cemetery, 15694, 32 Avenue, Surrey, BC. Entombment to follow.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Prayer Service
TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM, Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

Service
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025, at 11:30 AM

Location
Garden of Gethsemane Roman Catholic Cemetery, 15694, 32 Avenue, Surrey, BC

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Alzheimer Society of BC Link: alzheimer.ca/bc

 


Service Information

Service Details

The prayer service for BALDUCCI, Gemma (née LaPorta) is scheduled for TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM, Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC at located at , .


The service for BALDUCCI, Gemma (née LaPorta) is scheduled for THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025, at 11:30 AM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Garden of Gethsemane Roman Catholic Cemetery, 15694, 32 Avenue, Surrey, BC

15694, 32 Avenue, Surrey, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Colleen and Jef Morlan says:
    March 21, 2025 at 2:20 pm

    Gemma was an incredible, strong, loving and spirited woman unmatched by any other I’ve ever known. With her oldest, Susanna, being my cherished best friend since our ages of thirteen years, Gemma was always like a second Mother to me for over 50 years. Her amazing culinary skills and loving welcome to myself and everyone entering into her home made every visit like a big warm hug and entry into the beauty of the Italian culture. I loved her dearly and will miss her presence in my life daily however I know that she will now be welcomed by her family and dear friends who departed before her, with open arms where they will share together in memories and closely watch over family and each of us.who knew her. God speed Gemma, you were a beautiful, once in a lifetime shining jewel of a Lady. Love you always and forever <3

    Reply
  • Audrey & Ken Mayer says:
    March 21, 2025 at 3:40 pm

    Ken and I were very honoured to know Gemma and to experience her kindness and generosity. Sincere condolences to Gemma’s family and friends. Gemma leaves a beautiful legacy through her children and grandchildren. Gemma, you will be missed and always remembered with love❤️

    Reply
  • Raffaella La Porta says:
    March 21, 2025 at 8:03 pm

    Il destino vi ha portati a vivere lontano dal l’Italia e da noi, ma il rispetto e un profondo affetto hanno saputo accorciare le distanze. Porterò sempre nel cuore il ricordo dei pochi, ma intensi, periodi trascorsi insieme quando zia e zio tornavano nel loro paese natio. Cara zia Gemma ricorderò la tua bontà e la tua dolcezza. Ora che sei nel Regno dei giusti, consola i tuoi cari 💜

    Reply
  • Ray and Judy Popowich says:
    March 23, 2025 at 11:50 am

    Ray and I were lovingly invited into Gemma’s home many times. We were always greeted with the biggest hugs and the best Italian food ever! Gemma you will be greatly missed! Wishing all her family our sincere condolences!❤️

    Reply
  • Vincenzo and Rosa Fulginiti says:
    March 23, 2025 at 6:42 pm

    Our most heartfelt condolences go out to your family, she was a beautiful lady with a big heart. RIP now Gemma ♥️

    Reply
  • Carrie & Craig Dawson says:
    March 24, 2025 at 10:12 am

    Our heartfelt condolences to you all on the loss of your beloved Mother, Nonna, Bisnonna. My memories of Gemma are just like the photo, her head tilted and wearing a warm and welcoming smile, usually in a kitchen cooking something amazing! She was a lovely, kind, and generous lady who leaves a wonderful legacy for her family. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel who will be dearly missed on earth but always watching over you all with her love. Take care and big hugs xo

    Reply

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