Mercedes DiCamillo

Maria Mercedes Margarita DiCamillo, 90, of Canal Winchester, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026. She

was born on February 22, 1936, in Montevideo, Uruguay, where she spent many joyful years surrounded by the warmth of her close-knit family.

Mercedes grew up in her parents' loving home which included four siblings and their beloved German Shepherd, Chiquito. She cherished watching her father repair and create things for their household - simple moments that sparked her lifelong passion for creativity. Inspired by his hands-on ingenuity, Mercedes developed an extraordinary talent for imagining, designing, and knitting intricate sweaters, hats, and baby clothes, all without ever using a written pattern - only the one she carried in her mind.

She met her future husband, Valdimiro "Valdo" DiCamillo, and they married in November 1959. Together, they were known for using the entire dance floor for their beautiful tangos. After ten years of building their early life together in Uruguay, they moved first to Canada and then to the United States, where they continued raising their family. All three of their daughters were born in different countries. Mercedes was known for her ability to make others smile and laugh - she always found something to joke about. She was always ready for a game of cards or Yahtzee, or to cheer for her grandchildren as they caught a ball, kicked a goal, or played an instrument. She wore their school colors proudly - even showing up to a soccer game or two with purple hair.

Mercedes was preceded in death by her parents, Juan Gualberto and Margarita Lucia Stupino; her husband of 47 years; her two brothers and older sister; two sisters-in-law; and six brothers-in-law. She is survived by her younger sister, Norma of Uruguay; her brother-in-law, Toni of New York; and six sisters-in-law. She is also survived by her daughters, Gessica (Robert) Peraza of Ohio, Adriana (Rick) Beaudreault of New York, and Erika (Richard Jr.) Pasko of New Jersey; her grandchildren, Travis Peraza and his wife Kimberly, Christopher Beaudreault (Katie), Lukas Peraza (Jessica), Daniel Beaudreault (Stephanie), Andrew Beaudreault (Lupita), and Brian Beaudreault; and her beloved great-grandson, Declan Peraza.

She leaves behind many nieces and nephews, extended family, and countless friends. Everyone who met her loved her and thought of her as their own Ma or Nonna. She will be remembered for her lovely smile, adventurous and sassy spirit, and boundless creativity. Her love for life, family, and friends leaves a lasting imprint on all who knew her. Neighbors and friends will miss the joy of seeing her ride through the neighborhood on her scooter, smiling and waving as she passed.

A celebration of life will be held later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.

The entire family deeply appreciates the love, prayers, support, good thoughts, and great hugs received in honor and memory of our Mom. Enjoy your endless tangos with your favorite dance partner. We love you, Ma!

DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME, Pickerington, has been entrusted with helping the family through this difficult time. Online condolences may be made at www.spencefuneralhome.com.