Born in Natal, British Columbia, Giovanina spent her early years in Canada before returning to Italy as a young girl. She lived there until her early twenties, when she returned to Canada to build her life and future. Throughout her life, she was known for her kindness, generosity, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

Giovanina worked as a cook in the hospital, where she took great pride in caring for others through her meals. She later dedicated more than 20 years as a cook for the Colombo Lodge, becoming known for her warmth, hospitality, and dedication to the community she served.

A devout Catholic, Giovanina lived her faith through action. She generously volunteered her time preparing meals for church functions, community gatherings, and special events. Her kitchen was a place of love, fellowship, and service, and few things brought her more joy than feeding family, friends, and those in need.

She will be remembered for her strength, resilience, compassion, and the love she shared so freely with everyone around her. Her legacy lives through the many lives she touched, the traditions she passed down, and the family she cherished above all else.

She is lovingly survived by her niece Flavia (Doug), children Cody (and family) and Nicole (and family) and her other niece Clara, children Flavio (and family) and Renzo (and family) and many relatives and friends who will miss her dearly. She was predeceased by her sister Enes (Alceo Sartor) and brother Joe (Nora Martin), and niece Debbie Sartor who welcomed her into eternal rest.

Our family would like to thank her best friend Giselle Frenette, and Diane Baher for their daily care. Father Rex from St Mary’s Church, Dr Lies Davis for her amazing care; Dawn Virostek and her care aides from Kootenay Roots Care for going above and beyond, Interior Health’s Homecare palliative nurses, home support, and Respite care aides. We really felt supported during Zia’s palliative journey.

We would also like to thank our family and friends for checking in on us

A Memorial Mass and Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cranbrook B.C on Thursday July 30th, 2026, at 10:30am.

mcphersonfh.com