We Remember

MAZZA, Maria Concetta (née Smiroldo)

December 7, 1941 — April 10, 2026

Maria Concetta Mazza, lovingly known to many simply as Maria, passed away peacefully on April 10 at the age of 84 in Kelowna, British Columbia, surrounded by the love of her family and now entrusted to God’s eternal care.

Born on December 7, 1941, in Antillo, Sicily, Italy, Maria spent her early years between Antillo and Messina, where she built a strong educational foundation. She pursued her studies with dedication, earning a teaching diploma that qualified her to instruct at the preparatory level. Her passion for learning extended further as she completed advanced specialization studies in African cultural education, along with a three-year vocational certification in tailoring—reflecting both her intellectual curiosity and practical talents.

Maria began her career as a kindergarten teacher in Italy, where she nurtured young minds with care and patience. After immigrating to Canada, she settled in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where she and her former husband, Rocco Mazza, built a life and owned a bakery together. In 1989, Maria moved to Kelowna, British Columbia, where she continued to build a life centered around family.

Maria was a devoted mother to her two sons, David Mazza (Denise) and Marco Mazza (Gina). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Delaney Manz, Sloane Mazza, Sophia Mazza, and Logan Mazza, and a cherished great-grandmother to Lincoln Manz and Holly Manz. Her love for her family—especially her boys—was the cornerstone of her life and brought her immense pride and joy.

She was predeceased by her parents, including her mother Victoria, and her siblings Beniamino Smiroldo of Saskatoon and Matilda Fiorello of Sicily.

Rooted in her Italian heritage and Catholic faith, Maria carried with her the traditions, values, and quiet strength that defined her upbringing in Sicily. Her faith provided comfort and guidance throughout her life, expressed in simple and meaningful ways through kindness, devotion to family, and gratitude for life’s blessings. She remained deeply connected to her roots, maintaining strong ties with family both in Canada and abroad.

Maria found peace and happiness in life’s simple pleasures, particularly gardening and staying closely connected with her family, near and far. Though she was a private person, she had a warm presence and a beautiful smile that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She made quiet but meaningful connections, and her thoughtfulness was felt deeply by those who knew her.

Maria’s life was defined by resilience, devotion, and an enduring love for her family. She will be remembered not only for what she did, but for who she was—a caring mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose legacy lives on through the generations she cherished. May she rest in eternal peace.

Riposa in pace.

She will be deeply missed.

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