Gemma Fidanza (née Ramunno), born February 22, 1935, in Celano, L’Aquila, Italy, passed away at Overlander Residential Care on September 30, 2024. She was predeceased by her parents, Antonio and Gaudenza Ramunno, her husband Pierino, her daughter Giovanna Jurista, and her brothers Pasquale, Giovanni, and Domenico.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons Domenico (Lianne), Antonio (Leslie), and Pasquale (Kathie), along with 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Mario (Frances), sisters-in-law Costanza, Theresa, and Maria, and many nephews and nieces.
Gemma and Pierino left Italy in 1963 and emigrated to Canada, where they made Kamloops their home. They raised their family in the city they loved. Gemma worked at Whiteway Laundry for many years, making lifelong friends. Her wit, laughter, and singing will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to experience them. Gemma cherished family above all else. She found joy in cooking for her loved ones, tending to her large garden (which she generously shared), and spending time with friends. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense happiness.
A special thank you to Dr. Kip for your years of excellent care, and to the staff of Evergreen Overlander for the kindness and compassion you showed Gemma. We appreciate you all.
A service will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 635 Tranquille Rd, Kamloops, BC. Viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery, with a reception to follow at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.
Condolences may be sent to the family at
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
13 Tributes
Dear Domenico and Family, Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May your dear mother rest in peace.
Sincerely, Joanna and Pina Del Medico
Domenico, Antonio, Pasquale and families.
We were saddened to hear of your mother, Commari Gemma’s passing. She was so happy to to see my sister and I when we visited her in Overlander. She will greatly be missed by all. Sending you all our Heartfelt Condolences. May she Rest in Peace.
Vittorio and Maria (Pullano) Pagnotta.
Nonna Gemma will always be remembered for her laughter and funny quick wit. She always loved to watch us eat her pasta and enjoy an espresso with her of course with a cookie or two. She also loved having lots of kids over plus her grandkids friends my Nick and Michael were spoiled by Gemma. Hugs to the family her spirit lives on
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Nona, mom and MIL. Our thoughts send prayer are with you all.
So sorry for your family’s loss.
Heartfelt condolences to the family.
Cherish the memories.
R.I.P. Gemma ❤️
So sorry to hear of your Moms passing. Our thought and prayers are with you.
Condolences to the famiglia .
Sending love from Calgary Barbara Bitonti, Giovanna Trotta and family
Very sorry to hear about your mother Domenic, I have known her for life. My deepest condolences.
Sending my deepest condolences. I worked at overlander and just loved Gemma to bits.
It has been a few years I have been there but she was a gem. Great family you were.
Take care-Lindsay(worked in recreation)
Sending loving prayers to all.
Our hearts go out to you on the loss of your loving Mother. She sounded like such a beautiful soul, so special. May the love of your family and friends comfort you.
Thinking of you.
There are few memories of growing up on Kimberly Cres. that didn’t involve a Fidanza. “Squale” I hope you know what a great impact your sweet mom had and how many amazing memories she left. Birthday cakes with money in them, veggies out of the garden, learning how to roll pasta and her voice ringing out through the neighborhood when it was time for you to go in may be my most treasured.
My sincerest condolences to you all.