Obituary of Nicolina DiRienzo

Nicolina DiRienzo (nee Fruncillo) 1932 - 2017 It is with deep sorrow that the family of Nicolina DiRienzo announces her passing on Thursday December 7th, 2017 at the Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home in Cranbrook at 85 years of age. Nicolina was born on October 10, 1932 in Forino, Avellino, Italy. She was the youngest of seven children. Nicolina was married on May 14, 1959, in Forino, to Andy DiRienzo. Nicolina immigrated to Canada and lived in several small Kootenay communities including Wardner before moving to Cranbrook in the mid 1960's. Nicolina was a very caring wife, mother, and Nonna. Her family was very special to her. Nicolina loved spending time with her grandchildren and devoted many hours teaching them her love of cooking and baking. She also enjoyed spending time in both her vegetable and flower gardens, of which there were many. Nicolina also enjoyed picnics, playing bocce, and visiting with family and friends. Nicolina is survived by her three children Teresa Luxton (Drew), Joe DiRienzo (Tomasa) and Mary-Ann MacKinnon (Dan); her grandchildren Laura Ryan (Jeff), Andrew Luxton, Connor and Rylind MacKinnon and Hailey DiRienzo; two great grandchildren Emma and Alexandra Ryan as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Canada, the United States, and Italy. She was predeceased by her husband, Andy DiRienzo; her parents Nicolo Fruncillo and Maria Sacco; three sisters Angela Riccardi, Filomena Santucci, Carmelina Iannaccone; and three brothers Domenico Fruncillo, Vincenzo Fruncillo, and Geraldo Fruncillo. The family would like to thank all the staff at the Dr. F.W. Green Memorial Home for their understanding, care, and compassion given to our mom during her time there. Prayers will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at 7:00 pm at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cranbrook. Nicolina's funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cranbrook on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at 1:00 pm. Interment will be in the Mausoleum in Westlawn Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honour of Nicolina may do so to the: Alzheimer Society of Canada 20 - Eglinton Ave W, 16th Floor Toronto, ON, M4R 1K8 Charitiable Registration #11878 4925 RR0001 Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com