CUCULLO, Emma - May 29, 1931 – June 19, 2025.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Emma Cucullo at the Sault Area Hospital on Thursday, June 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with a short illness. Though her body grew weary, her spirit remained strong, and she has now been reunited with her beloved husband Giovanni Cucullo, her dear son Johnny, and her precious baby daughter Ann-Marie.
Emma was born in Paterno, Calabro, Italy, and in 1951 made the life-changing journey across the ocean with her family in hopes of a better future. She arrived in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, with her parents, the late Filiberto and Rosaria Marrello, and her siblings, the late Francesco Marrello, the late Louis Marrello (Barbara), and Maria Caicco (Alfredo).
Shortly after settling in Canada, her father arranged her marriage to the late Carlo Petrocco, with whom she had three children: Albert, the late Ann-Marie, and Carlo Petrocco. In time, Emma found true love with her devoted second husband Giovanni Cucullo (deceased), and together they expanded their family, welcoming Johnny Cucullo (deceased) and Rosemary Cucullo.
Emma was fiercely devoted to her family and when she was needed, she was there, and played a special role in the lives of her grandchildren: Lisa Petrocco, Ann-Marie Petrocco, Matthew Petrocco, Amanda Petrocco, Ashli Cucullo Vendramin (Paul), and Brittani Cucullo Bergeron (Lance). Her love extended to her great-grandchildren, Binson and Lennon Rose, who always brought a sparkle to her eyes. She especially loved teasing Binson about when he was going to cut his hair. Before she passed, she also had the joy of meeting the newest great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Oliver Bergeron, who, though living far away, were always close to her heart. She never failed to ask how they were doing.
Emma had the strength of a mother bear with a tough exterior, but she had a heart that knew no limits. She endured many losses in her lifetime, but always welcomed visitors with open arms—and usually a plate of pasta and meatballs (with a little something to take home). She cherished the simple joys of life: sitting outside surrounded by her flowers, basking in the sunshine, and sharing stories with neighbours, family and friends.
A woman of strength, generosity, resilience, wisdom and gratitude, Emma touched the lives of many. If you were in her heart, you were there for life—and you were better for it.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to Dr. Dawson, Dr. Schamp, and the compassionate nursing staff of 3B at the Sault Area Hospital for the care and kindness shown in her final days.
Mama, you are finally at peace; no more pain, no more sorrow. We take comfort knowing you are surrounded in heaven by those you missed so dearly. We already feel your presence watching over us with love and strength, as our newest guardian angel. Until we meet again...
Love you forever, Nana.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East 705-759-2522) on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, followed by a funeral service at St. Veronica's Catholic Church (559 Douglas Street) at 1:00 pm, Fr. Peter Nwachukwu officiating. Memorial contributions (made payable online or by cheque) to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Cucullo family.