Obituary of Elena Mariani

MARIANI, Elena (Sansotta) Sunrise: July 18, 1955 – Sunset: January 29, 2021 It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Elena Mariani (nee Sansotta). Loving and devoted wife to Antonio Mariani for nearly 48 years. Cherished mother of Steven and wife Rasha Mariani (nee Yacoub), Tanya and Nick Skaff, and Adam and Alana Mariani (nee Antogiovanni). Proud and adoring nonna to Tristan, Keira, Mariella, and Majella, Mariani and baby on the way; Alexander Skaff; Gianluca, Giordano, and Gilia Mariani. Doting daughter of Anna Maria Sansotta and Domenico (2019) and daughter-in-law of Pio (2007) and Lucia (2014) Mariani. Treasured sister and sister-in-law of Filippo and Monica Sansotta (nee Dauncey), Josie and Rick Zannese, Tina and Christopher Bendo (2010), Nick and Theresa Sansotta (nee Unis), and Angelina and Sam DeRose, Vincenzina and Franco Zeppieri (nee Mariani), Rosina (nee Mariani) and Maurizio Cafueri, Angelo and Alissar Mariani (nee Assaf), Giuliana (nee Mariani) and Walid Kerim. Proud aunt of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Elena is survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, Godchildren, and friends in Canada, USA, Italy, and Australia. Elena was born in the small town of Cimina in Reggio, Calabria, Italy. In 1958 at the age of 3, she immigrated to Canada with her parents and two of her siblings. She married the love of her life on May 12, 1973. Together they enjoyed spending time with their family and friends and were often admired for their ballroom dancing. Elena was an extremely dedicated and loving wife, mother, and nonna whose love knew no bounds. Her family was her greatest joy, her reason for living. She shared a strong and special bond with her parents, siblings, and in-laws. Elena was the consummate peacemaker always choosing to turn the other cheek. She was often asked for advice and her words of wisdom. As a woman of faith, she truly believed that God provides the strength we need to overcome any obstacle in life. Elena had a heart of gold and always gave all she could to those who needed her. She always greeted you with a warm embrace and her beautiful and inviting smile. Elena was a voracious reader who enjoyed learning. She enjoyed gardening with her husband and cooking for her family. Elena retired from hairdressing and Rivera Riverside Place. Throughout her life, she touched the lives and hearts of many. Thank you for your love that you shared unconditionally. We will miss you dearly and our love for you is eternal. Mia cara Elena, we will share a Heavenly waltz together when we meet again. I love you forever and always. Sei sempre nei nostri cuori. Ciao! Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel (Banwell Chapel) on Sunday, January 31, 2021 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A private funeral mass will be held at St. Angela Merici Church on Monday, February 1, 2021. Entombment to follow at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. Masks are required at visitation, Funeral Mass, and Cemetery. Reservations are required to attend the visitation. Please call Windsor Chapel at 519-253-7234 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:00pm. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.windsorchapel.com “What though the radiance that was once so bright, be now forever taken from my sight. Though nothing can bring back the hour of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower; we will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind.” – William Wordsworth