Giovanna was born Feb 8, 1920 in Melilli, Sicily to Guisepina and Vincenzo Ternullo. Her early years were spent growing up in Sicily with her brothers Andrea, Gino and Sebastiano. After World War II ended, Sebastiano Fazzino returned to Sicily, and she married the “man of her dreams” on April 12, 1947. While in Sicily they had two children, Paul and Nella. In 1957 Sebastiano came to Canada in search of a better life for his family. Giovanna followed in 1958 with Paul and Nella; arriving by ship in Halifax and then travelling by train across Canada. This was an amazing adventure for a quiet, shy woman who did not speak a word of English. The family settled in Ainsworth for a short time and then moved into Nelson.
Giovanna spent her life making a warm and loving home for her family and friends. Everyone was met at the door by “c’mon, c’mon” which was soon followed up by “mangia, mangia”. She truly loved to cook and provide for her family.
Giovanna was predeceased by her parents, siblings and her husband Sebastiano. She is survived by her children Paul (Carol), Nella, grandchildren Joanna (Eric) Chabot, Sebastian (Erin) and by her great grand children Tyler and Emily. She is also survived by her beloved sister-in-law Nella (Angelo) Amenta and their family as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Sicily.
Giovanna passed away with her family by her side at Kootenay Lake Hospital on February 12, 2012.
The family would like to express our appreciation to Dr. Keith Bridger and the staff at Kootenay Lake Hospital for their exceptional care and kindness throughout her illness. We would also like to thank Thompson Funeral Home for their compassionate service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation, 3 View Street, Nelson BC V1L 9Z9.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 17th at 7:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Thompson Funeral Home, 613 Ward Street, Nelson BC.
The Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 18th at 10:30 am at The Cathedral of Mary Immaculate, 813 Ward Street, Nelson BC with father Jim Ratcliffe as celebrant.
Entombment will follow at the Nelson Mausoleum, Nelson BC.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Service Ltd.