Obituary of Pierina Bronca

In Loving Memory

Pierina ‘Pina’ Bronca, née Ammaturo

June 29, 1947 - August 21, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of our Friend, our Aunt, our Nana, our Mother Pina Bronca, 77, of Cranbrook BC, on August 21, 2024.

Pina was born on June 29, 1947, in Contrada, Province of Avellino, Italy, the daughter of the late Giovanni and Angela Ammaturo. Her many memories of Italy were beautiful, walking to school on cobblestone streets, picking lemons with her older brother Tony always watching out for her. In June 1960, at 13 years old, Pina immigrated to Canada with her parents and brother. She took on the role of helping her family communicate in English and adjust to new beginnings. Pina loved her father and brother immensely, losing her father Giovanni at a young age was devastating. When her brother Tony passed it left an everlasting sadness in her heart. She lovingly cared for her mother Angela every single day of her 100 years, while raising her two sons Robert and Adam, working at Laurie School and running family businesses with her husband Mario.

Pina was adventurous, taking her family on many memorable road trips. She treated her son's friends as her own children, welcoming them, feeding them, advising them.

Pina made friends and connections everywhere she went, she was involved in many community groups. She remembered her years working at Skookumchuck Pulp Mill and Finning fondly, however her passion was education. Pina was proud to be ‘Mrs.B’, remembered beyond her 35 year career in education. A simple ‘hello’ from an old student would make her day; she remembered most by name.

Her connection with fellow teachers and coworkers continued on years after retirement.

She was a Nana to all the little ones who crossed her path. Mother to everyone who needed love and advice. Attending dance recitals, Christmas concerts, and graduations for children who once attended her beloved Little Acorn Preschool. Pina had an incredible ability to connect with students, always offering a listening ear and a helping hand.

Pina’s sense of humour, her ability to be light hearted, to laugh and make others laugh will be cherished. Sitting around her dining table was a gift, not only for her famous dishes but her warm inviting presence that will be forever remembered.

Pina's heart belonged to her two sons Robert and Adam, her devotion to both of them unmatched.

Pina’s commitment to her husband Mario of 45 years has left him lost without her. Pina’s love for her grandchildren was profound. She enjoyed her many Elizabeth Lake walks with friends, travelling, and spending time with her family.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, including her sweet dog Dave. Pina is survived by her husband, Mario; her children, Robert (Jasmine) and Adam Bronca; her grandchildren Trent, Nora, Remy, Finley and Kamaia; Sister in-law Maria Ammaturo and nieces Lori (Dom) Pesce and Angie Ammaturo; and her many close friends that she considered family.

Prayers will be on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at Christ the Servant Parish. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the Servant Parish.

Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery in Cranbrook BC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a donation to a charity of your choice or consider planting a rose bush in Pina’s memory.