With heavy hearts and great sadness, we announce the sudden passing of our matriarch, Filomena Niro, on July 5, 2020 at Great Northern Retirement Home in her 93rd year. She was born in Campobasso, Italy to Tony and Angiolina Purchio.
Filomena was the loving mother of Silvana Amadio (Ron), Rick Niro (Pauline), Marcy Ciferri (Bart), and Tony Niro (Rhonda). Beloved Nana to Terry Amadio (Susan), Greg Amadio (Jessica), Jennifer Capancioni (Marc), Erica Tucker (Dale), Andrea Niro, Richard Niro (Victoria), Laura Bitonti (Tony), Michael Ciferri (Natalie), Amanda Hilliard (Richard), and Brianna Niro. Loved Big Nana of Vanessa and Enzo Amadio, Logan Amadio, Kayleigh and Madison Tucker, Reese and James Niro, Maizy Niro-McFarling, Olivia and Sophia Bitonti, and Charli Hilliard. Respected sister of the late Mike Purchio (late Michelina).
At the age of 22, Filomena immigrated to Canada and quickly embraced her new country, culture and language. She worked for many years in the General Hospital kitchen, where she learned to make the best “mac and cheese” ever. Filomena had a big heart. She was always there to help relatives and friends, including newcomers to Sault Ste. Marie who needed assistance in adapting to a new way of life. On Sundays, her home on Charles Street was a hub, a place where young and old would meet for coffee, cuisine and conversation.
Filomena was a hard worker who took pride in everything she did. Through her example, she taught us honesty, integrity, discipline, and the value of family. Our mother will be greatly missed but will live on through our children and grandchildren. Una vita colma . . . un riposo bene meritato.
We are so grateful to the wonderful staff and friends at Great Northern Retirement Home for all the care and empathy shown to our mother. You are true angels. Thank you to the PSW staff who were so gentle and kind to her, to Patty Greve for the compassion shown during your monthly visits, to Jeff Conley for making her laugh, to Dr. Gieni and Dr. Webb, and to Lisa and Nicky for your constant medical support and advice. A very special thank you to family and friends for your visits, support and love – especially to niece Carmela Spina, comare Clara DiBattista, cousin Filomena Palotta, and goddaughter Maria Williamson.
Due to COVID-19 and restrictions on gatherings, a private service will be held in honour of Filomena. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or ARCH Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 215 St. James St, 705-759-8456.