Obituary of Caterina Pizzino

October 6, 1933 – October 12, 2020

Leaving us with heavy hearts, our loving “Ma and Nonna” Caterina gathered her loved ones to say goodbye on October 12, 2020. Her new journey has begun, watching over her beloved family from the heavens above.

Caterina was born in Scalea, Prov. Cosenza, Italy. Early in life she met the love of her life, Luigi, and they soon were married. In 1953, Caterina, Luigi and young daughter, Rosa Maria “Rosetta,” immigrated to Canada. The birth of their second daughter, Anna Maria, completed their family in 1958.

Caterina and Luigi had to overcome many adversities faced with starting a new life in a strange land. Not knowing the language, they had to work hard to provide for their young family. They sponsored many family members from Italy to join them in their new adventures in Cranbrook. Caterina became proficient in business matters and along with Anna Maria & Giacomo, they opened the popular Italian restaurant, “La Cucina.”

Her children, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were her greatest loves. During Caterina’s many adventures, she became a loving “Ma and Nonna” to all those who were fortunate enough to be in her life. She will always be remembered for being the best cook, whipping up a feast in no time at all, and always welcoming everyone to her large table for the most delicious meals and memorable gatherings. Her final message to her family and friends was…

“Be happy for me and love each other forever.”

Caterina is survived by her daughters Rosa Maria (Santo) Rocca, Anna Maria (Giacomo) Scavo, grandchildren Annette (Walter) Morse, Sandra (Brent) Gammie, Giacomo (Krista) Scavo and Dino Scavo, 7 beautiful great grandchildren, Zavier, Gianna, Santo, Alicia, Sierra, Nolan, Mallory, brothers and sister Giovanni (Teresa) Pesce, Gina Cenic and Elio (Assunta) Pesce, sister in law Raffaella Pesce in Italy, as well as many, much loved, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Luigi in 1986, brother Domenico and sister Maddalena, and her parents Casimiro and Maria Rosa Pesce.

Due to Covid 19 restrictions there will be a Funeral Mass by invitation only. A recording of the service will be available on our website after the 20th of October for viewing.

Donations in honour of Caterina can be made to a charity of one’s choice, or Padre Pio c/o Convento Frati Cappuccini Santa Maria Delle Grazie 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo (FG) – Italy.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com