With great sadness, we share the news of the peaceful passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother, Maria Novo, on June 22, 2026, at the age of 81 surrounded by her family.
Mom was truly the heart of our family and will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and endless love. She met her soulmate, Ernesto, in Sao Miguel Acores, where they got married and started their life together. In 1969, they moved to Canada with their two young sons and later welcomed two daughters, completing their family. Mom dedicated much of her working life to housekeeping, particularly at Eaton’s Department Store and St. Joseph’s Care Group. She took pride in her work and was admired for her dedication and strong work ethic.
Her faith was a big part of who she was; she proudly belonged to St. Anthony’s Church and spent many years with the Catholic Women’s League. Additionally, she volunteered with the Portuguese Association for a long time, helping prepare meals for weddings, celebrations, and community events. The friendships she formed with the Portuguese ladies were very special to her as she served her community. Mom loved traveling and enjoyed many adventures around the world with dad that created lasting memories together. She was not only a devoted mother but also a beloved Avó whose love had no limits. Being an Avó brought her immense joy and became one of her most cherished roles. Over time she became a “bonus Avó” to many others too-welcoming everyone warmly into her heart. Her family meant everything to her; she gave endlessly while always putting others’ needs first. She built a home filled with love laughter and unwavering support. Her warmth generosity and sense of humor touched all who knew her well. Even in later years when dementia affected some of her memories it could never erase how much impact she had on those who loved her.
Maria is survived by Ernesto; her four children Joe (Debbie), Carlo, Delia Novo-Costanzo (Sergio), and Debbie Berardi (Robert); along with grandchildren Jamie Costanzo (Ellen), Hailey Day (Simon), Nicole Costanzo (Nicholas), Isabel Berardi (Matthew), and Nicholas Berardi (Kristen). She also leaves behind sisters Ilda Da Costa Regina Lima (Jose) Filomena Barreiro (Joao); brother Messias Arruda; sisters-in-law Nazare Arruda Eduarda Arruda Maria Raposo Balbina Simoes Maria Novo Antonia Arruda (Antonio); plus many nieces nephews extended family members friends.
Maria was predeceased by parents Manuel & Maria Arruda; brothers Moses Manuel & Antonio; sister-in-law Maria Arruda; parents-in-law Manuel & Maria Novo; brothers & sisters-in-law Luis & Paulina Da Rosa Ilidio & Adelina Da Silva Gilberto & Fernanda Sousa Jose & Belmira Silva Luis Raposo Jose Simoes Manuel Novo nephew Mario Da Rosa.
The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to Dr. Mary Valente for exceptional care over the years along with Hogarth Riverview Manor staff at Birch Grove for their compassion friendship support which brought comfort both Mom our entire family.
The funeral service will take place on Monday June 29 2026 at noon at St Anthony’s R. C Church Visitation for friends family starts from 11 AM at church For anyone unable to attend in person funeral mass livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=Z6a EG3d5y S0
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Maria Alzheimer Society Thunder Bay Online condolences may be shared www. sargentandson. com.
She will remain forever loved deeply missed always remembered.
