Obituary of Maria Palladino
April 27, 1925 – July 23, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and everlasting love that we announce the passing of our matriarch, mother and nonna, Maria Palladino (née Venditti), who left this world peacefully on July 23, 2025, at the blessed age of 100.
Maria was the cherished mother of Giovanna (Joanne) Malerba. She was adored by her grandchildren, Emily (Eric Sorrentino) and Mark Malerba. Treasured by her great-grandchildren, Michael, Giuliana, Luca and Mila. Maria is predeceased by her loving husband Valentino, her parents Giovannino and Gelsomina Venditti, her son-in-law Michele (Mike) Malerba, her siblings Angela, Agostino, Felice and Rocco Venditti and her sisters-in-law Teresa and Emma. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Angelina, her dear family members Antonio and Maddalena Clemente, as well as her many nieces and nephews in Canada, USA, and Italy.
Born in 1925 in Carpinone, Italy, Maria, the eldest of five siblings, lived a full century marked by quiet strength, unconditional love, and unwavering dedication to her family. She immigrated to Canada in 1960, arriving in North Bay, Ontario and then moving to London, Ontario. Widowed at a young age, she faced life’s hardships with grace and resilience, becoming a constant source of support to her siblings, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Although she never worked outside of the home, her contributions were immeasurable as she poured her love into caregiving. A gifted cook, Maria found joy and purpose in feeding and caring for her family. Her handmade pasta, slow-simmered tomato sauce, and lovingly baked cookies were more than meals - they were expressions of love passed down with every bite. The kitchen was the heart of the home, filled with the aromas of tradition and the laughter of loved ones.
Maria, the heart and soul of her family, leaves behind a legacy of love that will echo through generations. Those who had the privilege of knowing Maria will remember her fiery spirit, her infectious energy, and the way she made everyone feel like family. She will be profoundly missed, but her spirit lives on in the lives she touched — a true Italian nonna in every sense.
A visitation for Maria will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street, London. The Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 10:30am at St. Mary’s Parish, 345 Lyle Street, London. A private interment will be held at St. Peter’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, in honour of Maria’s generous and giving nature.
