Obituary of Mary Catherine Fiorentino

Lovingly remembered as our true friend who lived a full and courageous life, with a generous heart, a keen and capable mind, and a faith-filled humble spirit.  Beloved Cranbrook, BC  was where Mary’s life journey began January 30, 1933 and where it came to completion, with caring friends at her side, September 22, 2024. Mary was the daughter of Giovanni Baptiste (Joe) and Augustine (Benedetti) Fiorentino, predeceased by her brother Joseph Fiorentino (June 20, 2020).

Mary touched many people in her life, as a dedicated nurse, nursing instructor, and creative director of newly established community college nursing programs in Oregon and California. She often said:  “Somebody was looking after me all along the way.”  Returning to her roots in Cranbrook later in life brought her a deep sense of belonging and the enriching gift of a community of faith, friendship and support. She generously offered others her many talents in supporting the mission of Marywood Retreat Centre, in her leadership of Cranbrook associates of the Congregation of Notre Dame and in Parish Outreach.

A Memorial Mass at Christ the Servant Parish in Cranbrook will be celebrated on Thursday October 17, 2024 at 11:00am.  From 10:00-10:45am there will be a time of visitation with friends. A reception will follow the celebration and then burial at 2:00pm in the Catholic Cemetery. 

Mary was grateful for the care she received from friends, doctors, nurses, caregivers and Kootenay Street Village residents and staff.  In lieu of flowers, if you wish, in Mary’s name a donation may be made to:

Cranbrook Food Bank Society

1-250-426-7664

Cranbrookfoodbank.ca   

There are some who bring a light to the world that even after they have gone the light remains…