PIERINA CARUSO (DOTOLO)

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PIERINA CARUSO (nee DOTOLO) July 8, 1932 - October 9, 2018 It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Pierina Caruso, aged 86, beloved wife, cherished mother and devoted Nonna (grandmother) on October 9, 2018 at the St. Boniface Hospital, Palliative Care Ward. Surrounded by her family and closest friends and to the sweet sounds of her favourite music, she ascended to her beautifully prepared garden in heaven. She will be lovingly remembered by Pietro, her husband and soulmate of 58 years, devoted daughters, Rosanna (Tony) and Teresa (Kelvin) together with her precious granddaughters, Makayla, Katianna and Marcella. She will be sadly missed by her sister Rosa (Domenico), brother Antonio (Maria), sister-in-law Mafalda, her many nieces and nephews who affectionately knew her as Zia Pia, her godchildren and her most cherished friends. She was predeceased by her brother Carmine Dotolo and her dearest friend Donato Colatruglio. Born in Ariano Irpino, Italy, Mom worked hard from a very early age. At the age of 23, without any English language skills, Mom travelled on her own to England where she worked for a Baroness and Baron on their country estate. Five years later, her eldest brother Carmine sponsored her to Canada while back in Italy her soulmate Pietro remained. While he wanted her to return to Italy, Mom was steadfast in believing Canada would offer them the best opportunity for a good life and so he came. In 1960 they married and shortly thereafter started their family. Mom continued to work hard for her family, first at a garment factory, then at the Pancake House. She then trained to become a hairdresser and established her own successful business, Rina's Beauty Salon. Mom's home was always full; her specialty dishes, her amazing baking and a constant stream of friends and family. She made friends everywhere she went, here at home and on her trips to Italy, England, Mexico, Hawaii and across Canada and the United States. Over the years, she spent many hours tending to her beautiful gardens and when she could no longer tend to them, she taught Dad everything she knew. She was a fierce scopa player and we have no doubt that she has already gathered her friends in heaven for a game or two. In 2007, Mom was diagnosed with dementia and while this was devastating for her to learn, she never lost her joy of life. Her humour, her sparkling smile, fierce independence and her feisty nature carried her always. She continued to laugh, to sing and enjoy her many outings with her daughters and granddaughters, and still had many lessons to teach us as she travelled this new journey. Mom was the most courageous, independent and strongest of all the women we have known in our lives. She was always giving of herself and helping others without ever wanting for anything in return. She never waited for others to step in or to speak out against injustices and she always, always called it as she saw it. Through life and through her journey to heaven, she remained our greatest teacher. Special thanks to Dr. Rush and to Dr. Stephanie Bunkowksi, to the Health Care Aides who took special care: Kesala, Rasheed and Keyona, and to Corrie and Mom's compassionate companions Lisa and May from VIP. Finally, to the staff and ladies of the morning aqua size class at Margaret Grant Pool for the many smiles and laughs you shared with Mom through the years. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church (510 River Avenue). In honour of Pierina's wishes, we will not be holding prayers in advance. Father Sam Argenziano officiating. Entombment will follow at Waverley Memorial Gardens, 1501 Waverley Street. Pallbearers will be: Tony Tavares, Kelvin Peters, Antonio Dotoli, Rosa Ciccarelli, Silvana Dotolo, Mike Dotoli, Natalina Colatruglio and Felicia Venusio. In recognition of Mom's love of children, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children's Wish Foundation, 350 St. Mary Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3J2. Arrangements by Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home and Cemetery

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 13, 2018