Rosita Anna (Nee Appigli) TORELLI

TORELLI, Rosita (Rose) Anna (Nee Appigli): MARCH 8, 1929 - OCTOBER 12, 2023 Rosita passed away Oct. 12, 2023 at Normanna Rest Home in Burnaby, B.C., where she lived for just over 2 months, before her death. She was born in Penticton, B.C. to Italian immigrants Carlo & Natalina Appigli. Natalina was formerly a Biagioni. They emigrated from the region of Tuscany (Filicai, Garfagnana, Lucca). Mom was predeceased by her husband Pietro (Peter) in 1977. They were married for 22 years. She also lost both her parents in the 80's. Rosita is survived by her children Natalie & Maurice Torelli, sisters; Delta Montague (Deceased: Gordon), Lidia Stewart (deceased: Lyle), & sister-in-law, Kay Torelli (brother-in-law, deceased Gian Carlo, "John"). Also, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She lived on the same street in Penticton, B.C. for 90 years, as she moved to the house next door to her family home after marrying. In 2019 she relocated to Burnaby, B.C. to live with her retired children. Mom met her husband, Peter when he emigrated from Italy in the early 50's; he hailed from the same hometown as Rosita's parents. They enjoyed going out for walks and to the movies together. Marriage followed in 1955. She graduated from Penticton Senior Secondary School in 1947 and later worked in her career as a florist at both Monty's Flowers and Carl's Flowers (Penticton), as well as at Karen's Flowers in Kelowna (for a short period). Rosita deftly handled many challenging floral assignments, be it weddings, graduations, funerals or especially those harried Christmas seasons! Her favourite part of the job was making corsages, which the rest of the staff happily passed her way. She was extra talented in this department. In her home life she loved gardening, cooking, doing embroidery, listening to music, (she adored Andrea Bocelli), and going for swims in Okanagan Lake. Rosita was a homebody who relished Penticton summer weather, though some days were a little overly toasty for her. She loved her family and friends dearly and held them close to her. Rosita will be sadly missed by all who knew her; heaven has gained a new angel. Rest in peace, Mom. We would like to thank the doctors, nurses, care aides and staff at Burnaby General Hospital and at Normanna Rest Home. Your kind care and attention were greatly appreciated. Cremation, and no funeral by request. Private graveside service in Penticton, being planned for the Spring of 2024. In remembrance, donations may be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, or a Charity of Your Choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to Forest Lawn Funeral Home.