Francesca "Tina" Salerno

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Francesca Salerno who died tragically on June 20, 2026 in Brampton Ontario, at the age of 83.

Francesca is survived by her son, Sergio and his wife Lucy. Loving and devoted nonna to her treasured grandchild: Salina. Predeceased by her husband, Salvatore and two loving children, Maurizio and Sabrina (who is survived by loving husband Massimo).

She was first born to loving parents Mariano and Teresa. She will be lovingly remembered by her siblings Frank (d. Rita) and Rosalba (d. Oreste) and is predeceased by her brother Michele (Carmela) and two sisters, Gina (Ernesto) and Anna. She leaves behind many cherished extended family members and dear friends to be reunited with her loving husband, son and daughter.

Born in Cosenza, Calabria, Italy, Francesca migrated to Canada at the age of 19, where she built a life with her husband Salvatore defined by resilience, hard work and deep devotion to family. Over the next 40 years she held various jobs within the textile industry, a toy company and finishing her career in automotive manufacturing, during which time she overcame language barriers, prejudices and hardships. In her family life she was the matriarch, acting as host for various holidays, a seamstress repairing and perfecting clothes, annually making tomato sauce, doling out motherly advice, playing cards, visiting family and enjoying loved ones. She was happiest in her garden, sipping espresso, watching everyone enjoy the feasts she prepared and playing with her granddaughter. Francesca’s legacy is one of unconditional love, generosity and a quiet but profound force.

If desired, donations to Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

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Family and friends will be received at the Ward Funeral Home (4671 Highway 7, Woodbridge) on Sunday June 28th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Clare of Assisi (150 St. Francis Avenue, Woodbridge, ON L4H 2A2) on Monday June 29th, 2026, at 9:30am. Entombment to follow at Westminster Cemetery.