September 30, 1927 - September 2, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
Gilda Pucci was born in San Vittore, Italy on September 30, 1927, and passed away on September 2, 2024, in Summerland, BC. She led an incredibly full life and had many adventures along the way.
Gilda immigrated to Canada in 1954, following her husband (Silvio) who had arrived before her in 1952. When she landed in Halifax with her 3 small children (Lidia, Pasqualino, and Erminio), she discovered that all her belongings were stolen. Armed only with fierce determination and love of family, Gilda made her trek across Canada to Prince Rupert, BC, via the CPR. She was forever grateful for the kindness of strangers and the help of the Salvation Army along the way.
Her immediate two goals after arriving in Prince Rupert were to learn the language and build a home for their family. Through hard work and resilience, she learned the language and over the course of a few years, together with Silvio, they built their family home where she would live for over 50 years. It was during this time that their 4th child (Rita) was born.
The most important thing in Gilda's life was her family. She was truly "the glue" that kept the family together. She ruled with an iron fist and a warm heart and always by example. She welcomed everyone around her family table, regardless of race, shape, background or religion. She was a true Matriarch and became "mom" to many people.
Gilda moved to Summerland in 2013 to be closer to her daughter. She embraced the Okanagan as she did everything in her life, with joy and enthusiasm. She learned how to tend to fruit and nut trees; and how to grow, gather and preserve every imaginable vegetable. As Gilda would, she made new and lasting friendships in Summerland, too.
In the last months of her life, Gilda's mobility was severely challenged, and yet she didn't complain but persevered, showing strength and stoicism to the end.
Gilda was pre-deceased by her husband, Silvio, and daughter, Lidia.
She leaves behind 3 children: Pasqualino (Darlene) of Port Alice, BC; Erminio (Lori) of Prince Rupert, BC; and Rita (Stuart) of Summerland, BC. She had 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren to whom she was completely devoted.
She will be deeply missed by all.
Condolences may be left at providencefuneralhomes.com
250-494-7752
