It is with deep love and gratitude that we announce the peaceful passing of Antonia Marra, affectionately known as Nona, on September 20, 2025, at the incredible age of 106. In her final days she was surrounded by her loving family.

Born on August 20, 1919 in Forino Italy, Antonia lived a life rich in tradition, family, and quiet wisdom. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend, she touched the lives of all who knew her with her warmth, resilience, and generous heart.

Antonia met the love of her life Antonio (Tony) in her twenties. However, Antonio was conscripted to serve in the Italian military during World War 2 and did not return until eight years later. Upon returning from service they continued their courtship and married in 1951. Antonia and Antonio settled in Cranbrook, BC, in 1952 and began raising their family.

Nona was known for her deep love of gardening, knitting many sweaters, slippers and blankets, cooking traditional Italian dishes and filling her home with the comforting smells of family recipes passed down through generations. Her hands were rarely idle — always nurturing something, whether it was a plant, a pot of sauce, or the people lucky enough to sit at her table.

She also took pride in her countless hours volunteering at the Cristoforo Columbo Lodge where they cooked vast amounts of pasta and meatballs. She loved the laughter and friendship found in that kitchen, proving that food really is the quickest way to win people over.

One of her greatest joys was sharing a glass of wine with family and visitors, offering not just refreshments, but her time, her stories, and her listening ear. Her kitchen was a gathering place. A space where love was cooked into every meal and where everyone was welcomed with open arms.

Antonia’s life was a testament to the beauty of simple pleasures, steadfast love, and enduring tradition. She leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, kindness, and the small but powerful rituals of daily life.

Antonia was predeceased by her husband Antonio in 1995, her sister, Angelina, her brother, Andre, her great-great grandson, Meko, and her very close cousin, Margaret Kraljic.

She is survived by her loving children: Marg, Silvana (Jim), Jack (Shelly), her grandchildren: Josie (Jim), Jedediah, Jordan, Devon, and Dylan, her great-grandchildren: Jessica and Nathan, her great-great grandchildren: Jayden, Jayce, Mateo and Maverick, as well as many other nieces, nephews and friends in Canada and Italy.

Vigil Prayers and Rosary will be held on Friday September 26 at 7 PM at McPherson Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on 10th Avenue, Cranbrook, with entombment to follow at the Westlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.

The Mass will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Please follow the link below to view:

https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/antonia-marra-mass

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nurses and staff at the Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home for their dedicated care and kindness. Their support brought comfort not only to her, but also to all who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you plant something in her honor, cook a favorite dish, or share a glass of wine with someone you love — just as Nona would have wanted.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”

mcphersonfh.com