It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Giuseppina “Pina” (Iadarola) Mazzei, on August 22, 2026, at the age of 78.
Pina was born on September 20, 1947, in Fragneto Monforte, Benevento, Italy, to Crescenzo and Teresa Iadarola. She immigrated to Canada in November 1955 with her mother, sister, and oldest brother, where they joined her father in Albert Canyon, near Revelstoke. It was there that Pina became the older sister to two more brothers.
In 1960, the Iadarola family moved to Kamloops, where Pina attended school. It was in Kamloops that she met the love of her life, Giuseppe “Joe” Mazzei. They married on October 12, 1968, and soon welcomed their only child, Tony.
Being a mother was one of Pina’s greatest joys. She was also a loving and devoted aunt to her many nieces and nephews and a cherished godmother to many. She had a special place in her heart for each of them.
And when she thought she could not love anymore, she became “Nana” to Isabella in 2002 and Giuseppe in 2004. They were clearly her greatest joys and became the light of her life. Nana spoiled them continuously and would happily do or buy anything for them. Her love for them was endless.
Pina was known by everyone for her incredible cooking and baking. She could prepare a delicious meal seemingly in no time, and she loved nothing more than a crowded table filled with family, friends, laughter, and good food. Sharing a meal was her way of showing love. If you were visiting her house there was always room at the dinner table and way more than enough food to go around.
Strong-willed, generous, caring, and always full of life, Pina loved to throw a party for all family occasions. She enjoyed any opportunity to gather with all the people she loved. When Pina was at any celebration, she would most likely be the last to leave, making sure the fun continued as long as possible.
In April 2014, Pina suffered her first stroke, which began a long journey of numerous health challenges. She faced each battle with strength and determination, but it seemed that it was just too much for her to overcome. After years of fighting, her body finally grew tired, and she passed peacefully.
Pina leaves behind her beloved husband of 57 years, Joe; her son Tony, his wife Vera, and her cherished grandchildren Isabella and Giuseppe Mazzei.
Pina is also survived by her siblings Mario Iadarola (Bernice), Nina Marchese (Frank), Tony Iadarola, and Fred Iadarola (Linda) and her sisters-in-law Angela Masi and Mirella Martino. She will also be dearly missed by her nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and dear friends.
Prayers for Pina will be at 7 PM on Tuesday, September 1st at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 635 Tranquille Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at OLPH church on Wednesday, September 2nd at 10 am. Following the Service, Pina will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery.
Riposi in pace, Mama. You will be loved and missed forever.
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