Obituary of Maria Idone

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Idone (née Giorlo) at home surrounded by family on May 31, 2026 at the age of 78 after a valiant eight-year battle with cancer.          

Born on September 8, 1947 in Reggio Calabria, Calabria, Italy, Maria made a life in Ottawa in 1966.

Maria will be forever loved and deeply missed by Pasquale Idone, her loving husband of 60 years; her children Domenic (Micheline), Anna-Maria (Afonso) and Francesco; her grandchildren Matthew, Sandro, Alessia, Michael and Anthony, and her great grandson little Jovi. She will also be lovingly remembered by her siblings Lina (Nino), Antonia (Antonio), Concetta (Paolo), Luigi (Francesca) and many brothers-and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends in Canada and Italy.

She was predeceased by her parents Francesco Giorlo and Teresina Ceraolo, and her late brother Marco.

A devoted mother and wife, Maria found her greatest joy spending time with her family and grandchildren, tending to her flowers, and sitting outside on her front porch speaking with anyone who passed by. She made time for everyone, often thinking of others before herself. Her gentle presence and beautiful smile will be missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Ottawa General Hospital Oncology team, her palliative care team and personal support workers for their care, compassion, and support during this difficult time.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Cole Funeral Services at the Pinecrest Cemetery, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa, on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 11am until time of Christian Funeral Service in the Chapel at 1pm. Entombment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Maria to the Canadian Cancer Society.