October 31, 2021 (73 years old)
It is with a heavy heart that our family announces the passing of Donna Varpio, after a couragerous battle with cancer, at the Maison McCullough Hospice with her family by her side. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Martin, her sons Ken (Julie), Jim (Renee) as well as her sisters Norma Hutchinson (Keith), Irene Morelli - predecessed (Dick - predecessed), Jean Johnson (Edmund - predecessed) and Evelyn Ade (John - predecessed). A host of nieces and nephews will also remember her with great fondness. Additionally, her grandsons Blake, Logan, Nico, Gabriel and Sébastien held a very special place in her heart.
Donna had an amazing skill set which was further enhanced by a tireless work ethic and dedication to family and community. She amazed us all with her prowess as a weaver, seamstress, homemaker, salesperson, technician and craft maker. Foremost in the minds of her family and friends were the spectacular dishes she prepared with love and creativity. Her many friends were attracted to her positive attitude and energy. We all benefitted from her generosity of spirit and support. She will also be remembered for her exemplary volunteer work with various organisations such as Finlandia Village, Canadian Cancer Society and as a singer with various choral groups such as Nickel City Sound and Harmoni.
Her happy places were at camp or at home with her family or socializing and creating with her weaver friends at Finlandia Village.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Sunday, November 28th at Finlandia Village (Voima Hall) from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. Donations to the Maison McCulloch Hospice, Finlandia Village or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.