Our Antonietta (Anne), taken tragically on June 1, 2004 will be forever remembered and loved by family and friends. Survived by her husband Antonio Balducci, daughters Patricia Nauss (Ken), Nancy McNicol (Rob),Vilma Folli (Walter), mother Tina Lanzi, brother Caesar Lanzi, grandchildren Barrie, Ananda, Leigh, Jordan, Mitchell and Kerri and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Dante Lanze.
Anne grew up in a small Italian village, Goriano Sicoli,, located 100km, east of Rome. She immigrated to Canada in 1957 to join her fiance Antonio who had arrived the year before. Upon Anne's arrival, the couple immediately married and chose North Vancouver as their home. Through those initial years, they had many challenges, but always retained a positive outlook and sense of humor. Anne enjoyed her life - she had close family and friends and spent much of her life doing the things that made her and Tony happy. For many years, the couple made extended trips with their motorhome deep into Mexico - most of these trips lasting 3 to 4 months, allowing the couple close and longstanding friendships. In recent years, living in Abbotsford and Pender Harbour, B.C., their adventures took them abroad to Asia and Europe and tragically, it was at the conclusion of one such trip so close to home that we lost Anne.
In our sorrow, we remember how Anne approached life - with adventure, and as a kind and gentle being unencumbered by pettiness. Among her unique gifts was an ability to put others at ease - even total strangers quickly felt comfortable in her presence. Her passing has left a void in our lives, but in our grieving we must consider what she would want for us - her message would likely remind us of life's unpredictability - no guarantees, and how we need to live life to the fullest. In honour of Anne's memory, and with the passing of time, we will find our peace and endeavour to live in a manner that will make her proud. Anne - you will be dearly missed. You have touched and affected so many - your love and influence will be with us always.
Services will be held at Henderson's Fraser Valley Funeral Home at 34537 Marshall Road, Abbotsford, B.C. on Saturday June 19, 2004 at 1:30 p.m.