Bruna Mirella Zanni

1928 - 2022

It is with heartfelt sorrow we announce the loss of our beautiful and beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Bruna Mirella Zanni.

Bruna passed away peacefully with family by her side on October 27, 2022, at the age of 94. She was predeceased by her husband Dino Zanni.

Matriarch of our family, Bruna's unconditional love, strong will, and passionate character will be forever cherished.

Bruna was born on September 4, 1928, in the small Italian mountain village of Trefiumi. She grew up on a farm with her parents, Giaconda and Giuseppe Mavilla, and siblings Elario, Mina and Tina. When the struggles of WWII made life difficult, she relocated to Parma, and later Milan, to work. In 1956 she met Dino Zanni, the love of her life, and they wed in 1957 in Piandelagotti, Italy. Later that year she immigrated to Canada to join Dino in building their new life together.

They settled in Rayleigh, a small community north of Kamloops, British Columbia, where they built a new home and eagerly expanded their family. Bruna confronted the challenges of her new life with courage and determination. Expressing her love through food, she nurtured a garden, and canned, cooked, and preserved its bounty. Time spent with the large Italian community in Kamloops enriched their lives, and many lifelong friendships were built. When Dino passed unexpectedly in 1973, Bruna bravely raised their 5 children, ages 4 to 15, with support and encouragement from her friends and family. She was a true caregiver and exemplary mother that provided a consistent, nurturing, and safe family environment where her children thrived.

As her children grew and began lives of their own, Bruna made the decision to move to Kamloops. There she created a home where she felt happy, and she made it a little piece of heaven for her family to visit. Many delicious, homemade Italian meals were enjoyed by all of her family and friends. She loved and took great care of her yard, including her flower gardens. She spent time meeting friends for lunch, attending church, and learning. Independent, strong, and determined not to be a burden to anyone, she lived in her home until the age of 93. Bruna also enjoyed traveling and had many memorable trips including Italy, Mexico, Hawaii, New York, and Las Vegas. She also loved visiting her children in Vancouver, Kelowna, Canmore, Calgary and in the Shuswap. Although Bruna didn't drive or speak English fluently, it didn't stop her from buying a motorhome and a property at the Shuswap, that she co-owned with the Melzers. There, she created many great memories and loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and their families. We are grateful for our time with Bruna and will cherish those memories forever.

In difficult times, Bruna never gave up. She fought right to the end and lived life on her terms. Leaving behind 5 children, 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, Bruna now joins her beloved husband Dino. We know she is in loving hands. Bruna will always be with us in spirit. She is deeply loved and will be missed.

Bruna Mirella Zanni is survived by: Daughter Marcia (John) Scott, son Chris (Kerri) Scott & daughter Madisyn Scott, son Kevin (Veronica) Scott & sons Brody and Levi Scott. Daughter Mary (Roland) Melzer & their children Roman, Nicole & Landon Melzer. Son Larry (Jennifer) Zanni. Son Paul Zanni & Jamie MacMillan. Son Dino (Darlene) Zanni & son Jerry Zanni.

We extend our gratitude to Dr. Dupreez, Dr. Howie, the caregivers at Kamloops Royal Inland Hospital, Kamloops Hospice, Gemstone Care Centre, and the lovely team at Drake Cremation and Funeral Home. Service will be held at a later date.