Obituary of Maria Fazio

Maria Nicola Fazio (née Tarulli), affectionately known as Marietta, passed away on August 11th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at Ajax Pickering Hospital, at the age of 101. Born on April 14th, 1923, in Bitetto, Bari, Italy, Maria married the love of her life, Vito Fazio, on June 8th 1945 and later emigrated by sea to Canada on the ship Vulcania on March 27th 1960. She landed in Halifax with her two daughters, Angela and Palma where they joined Maria's husband, Vito, who emigrated in 1959. They brought with them a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that she shared with her community. Maria lived in North York, at 28 Daleside Crescent, where she resided for 50 years. For the last 11 years of her life, Maria happily lived with her daughter Palma and son-in-law Nicola in Ajax.

Maria was a skilled tailor, having worked at Tossuniann Tailor, and later contributed her talents to Ontario Crippled Children Centre and Sylvania Electric. Her work not only showcased her craftsmanship but also her dedication to aiding others, particularly children with disabilities.

Devout to the patron Saint Beato Giacomo, Maria's faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions, traditions and interactions with those around her. She found joy in sewing, gardening, and singing, activities that reflected her loving, funny, and sweet nature. Maria was deeply family-oriented, full of life and always had a story to tell or a proverb to live by, traits that made her the beloved matriarch of her family. She was deeply loved by all who knew her.

Maria was preceded in death by her husband, Vito Fazio; daughter, Angela Punzo; son-in-law, Frank Punzo; and siblings Francesco Tarulli, Francesco Tarulli II, Caterina Tarulli, Vincenza Barosi, and Eugenia Scarpetta. She is survived by her daughter, Palma, and son-in-law, Nicola Cellamare; sisters Antonietta Palmieri and Angela Chieco; grandchildren Emanuel (Amy), Mirella, Joseph (Maria), Anna Maria (Dave), and Vito (Meghan); and great-grandchildren Angelica, Frankie, Alessia, Nicholas, Marisa, Noah, Rachel, and Mason.

If you choose, memorable donations can be made to the Canadian Lung Association in Maria's memory, continuing her legacy of care and support for others. Her life's impact, marked by resilience, kindness, and a deep commitment to her family and faith, will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.