Obituary of Grazia Lecci

With great sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Grazia Lecci, who passed away on Saturday August 5, 2023. She had a full and joyous life of almost 93 years.

Grazia was born in Livorno Italy, which is in the Tuscany Region.  She met Bruno when she was in her early twenties at a chaperoned dance. Bruno and Grazia went on several dates after that evening; with Grazia’s younger brothers (Massimo and Giovanni Favilla) in attendance as well.  They married in July of 1954, and then a month later set sail for Montreal, Canada as Bruno had been offered a job there.

The trip on the Merchant Marine ship took 22 days; including stops in Spain and France. However, Bruno’s job did not materialize as his employer had just passed away the day before they arrived. Bruno was ready to return home, but it was Grazia who said No; because they had already made the decision to start a new life, and she wasn’t going to turn back then.  After one month they headed to Ottawa as they had a baby gift for someone here; and Ottawa is where they ended up calling home.

Grazia then started a long and wonderful career at the Ottawa Public Library-Main Branch in the Children’s Department, where she enjoyed many great friendships as well.  Her favorite things at the Library were doing puppet-shows and story time for the children.  After her retirement, she loved her work so much that she continued to work part-time at various Branches.

Grazia was also an adventurous soul, and later in life she parasailed in the Caribbean, swam with the dolphins in Cozumel Mexico, and road behind a motorcycle to celebrate milestone birthdays in her 70s and 80s

Grazia will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, warm heart, and gentle spirit. 

She is survived by her husband Bruno, daughter Deborah, son Len (wife-Kelly), grandchildren Bella and Luke, and many wonderful extended family and friends.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please join us to celebrate Grazia’s life on Saturday August 12^th at 10:30am in the Chapel at Pinecrest Cemetery. (Service at 11:00)

To stream the service, please click HERE

We know that Grazia would not have wanted any Flowers or Gifts.  She always said, “Remember the poor and those in need.”    So if people wish they can donate to their favorite Charity (or) one of Grazia’s favorite Charities was “Compassion International” (People can choose online the Project and Country they prefer.)