It is with deep sadness that our family announces the passing of our beautiful Mother and Nonna. Antonia “Antonietta” Nicastro (nee Paradiso) passed away peacefully on March 30, 2024, at the age of 92, with her family by her side.
Her reunion with her beloved husband, the late Gaspare, marks the beginning of a new chapter in eternity. Antonietta's devotion to her family was unparalleled. She was the loving and cherished mother of Maria Longo (Michele), Ivana Mihaljevic (Tom) and the late Joe Nicastro. Incredible Nonna to Caterina, Michael (Kathy), Nadia (Scott), Robert (Marlyna), Jessica, Maggie (Dasan), Maria (Zachary), Makayla (Robbie), Vanessa (Keaton), and Thomas. Nonna “Netta” was adored by her great-grandchildren Sofia, Nicholas, Eric, Elliott, Giuliana, Blake, and Connor.
Antonietta was born on January 1st, 1932, in Serra Aiello, Cosenza, Italy. She is predeceased by her parents, Giuseppina and Francesco Paradiso, and her brothers Pasquale, Carmine, Eugenio, Celestino, Fiore, and her infant twin brother. All her nieces and nephews all over the world held a special place in her heart, in part because they were an extension of her brothers. Among them, her nephews Franco (Concetta) and Gino (Bianca) Paradiso held a particularly dear place, treating her with the utmost care and affection, as if she were their own mother. We know they will deeply miss her.
Her legacy as a hard worker will forever endure, serving as a timeless source of inspiration and guidance. Widowed at a very young age, she recognized the importance of providing for her family. She dedicated years of service as a short-order cook at Parnell Foods and as a custodian for the Public-School Board. Through commitment and tireless efforts, she not only provided for her family but also imparted the invaluable lesson of the importance of hard work. Her steadfast dedication to both her work and her family has left a mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Antonietta was an incredible cook, and every dish was marked by her love and dedication. She was famous for her homemade bread, amaretti, boconotti, biscotti and could make an apple pie with her eyes closed. If you were one of her grandchildren, you were especially in for a real treat as any request would be met. She made tie plates because she knew “piace al nipotini”. Her “cudduridi” days were epic, and she always made sure she planned cudduridi day for when most of her grandkids were in town. You could not visit her without accepting food and drink and a takeaway parcel of treats.
In addition to her culinary talents, Antonietta possessed a heart as expansive as her family tree and found her greatest joy in the company of loved ones. Family dinners held a particularly special place in her heart, symbolizing her happiest moments. The long table in her basement served as the focal point for countless gatherings, adorned with platters of food and endless glasses of her homemade wine. Amidst the shared meals, there was an abundance of laughter, storytelling, and genuine happiness. As the family matriarch, Antonietta made it her mission to ensure that no matter how busy life became, the family always came together. With unwavering determination, she insisted on managing every aspect of these gatherings herself, finding pride and fulfillment in expressing her love through these acts of hospitality.
The family would like to thank all her longtime friends, who showed her endless love and friendship. We would also like to thank the staff at Extendicare Mapleview. During her short time there, she was shown much care and compassion, and we will forever be grateful.
Resting at O’Sullivan Funeral Home where family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 10am until 12pm. A mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Family RC Parish at 1pm with Father Jaroszek officiating. Emtombment at Holy Sepulchre Mausoleum to follow. Memorial contributions can be made in her honour to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.
Though our hearts ache with her passing, we find solace in knowing she is at peace. Her legacy of love, resilience, and compassion will continue to inspire us forever. Rest peacefully, cara Mama and Nonna, knowing that you will always be cherished and remembered with profound love and gratitude. Per sempre nei nostri cuori, riposa in pace.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to share memories or condolences with the family. Arrangements entrusted through O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).