It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dearest mother, Carmen Spiteri (Refalo) on December 13th, 2020, at the age of 92 years. Carmen will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 67 years, Joseph Spiteri, and their children Joseph (Anna), George, Robert (Carol), and Doreen (Brad). Carmen will also be fondly remembered by her seven grandchildren, Katelin, Laura, Steven, Jennifer, Julie, Bradley, and Grant, along with her siblings Mike (Cathy), Lorna, Rita (Dominic), Teresa (Carmeno), and many nieces and nephews. Carmen was predeceased by many loved sisters and brothers. She will be dearly missed by her special friend and caregiver Durga, who brought her much happiness in the final years of her life. Special thanks is also sent out to her caregivers and nurses from The Elliot Community and her many doctors from Guelph and Toronto.
Carmen was born in Malta on March 21st, 1928. She emigrated to Canada with her husband Joe in 1953. Carmen’s family was her proudest accomplishment. She was a wonderful mother who was fiercely protective of her children and always put them first. She made everyone feel loved, gave the tightest hugs, and never wanted to see anyone hurt. She took pride in her home, antiques, and loved animals. She was an excellent cook, and enjoyed music, playing piano, and singing. Carmen, like her husband Joe, was a devout Catholic. Christmas and Easter were special times for her. Carmen’s life was not free of challenge. She was born with poor vision, survived heavy bombing in WW2, and struggled with diabetes in her mid-life. In later life, Carmen lost her vision to glaucoma and struggled with dementia. Despite these challenges, she loved a good joke and had a strong laugh. Carmen devoted her life to caring for others and spreading kindness, and she will forever be remembered for the wonderful person she was. Due to current restrictions, a private funeral will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at Glen Oaks Cemetery, Oakville. Memorial donations in memory of Carmen can be made to the CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) or Alzheimer's Society of Canada.
Arrangements entrusted to GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph, (519-824-0031). We invite you to leave your memories and donations online and they will be forwarded to the family.