I will miss seeing you walking with Stella and will miss your positive attitude ….warm personality and friendly conversation.

I met Maria last summer when she came for a visit with my sister to my cottage. Maria was such a positive and amazing person to meet and will always be remembered. My sympathy to her family and friends, our thoughts are with you. Barb and Bev Newton

My deepest condolences to Maria’s family. I can not begin to express my love and appreciation for Maria’s friendship. I’ve known her since 1987. We went to church together for many years. However, it didn’t take long for the adventures to begin. The list will be too long to mention them all. To name a few, many many road trips, camping, traveling, walking and eating out (not forgetting the beer) but my most memorable of all, was being her “maid of honor” at her wedding.
I am thankful once again to be at your side during your last days with us. You smiled every day and never lost your sense of humor inspite of your discomfort. You gave of yourself until you peacefully went to sleep. You’ve taken a part of my heart, Maria. I’ll miss you, my dear friend ❤️
Love forever. ❤️

Our sincere condolences to Maria’s family. Maria was such an inspiration with her positive outlook on life. She lit up my days with her joyful smile and engaging conversations when we met on dog walks. Jackie and I always enjoyed meeting her and Stella which made my day. You will be missed but always remembered.
Helena, Jim and Jackie

My family first met Maria close to 20 years ago when she and my dad would walk their dogs together on weekends. It was a full circle moment just a few months ago when my son met up with Maria and they ended up on a long dog walk together.
Maria was such a happy and positive person; I don’t think we ever met her without a friendly smile (or a pocket full of dog treats). Her attitude when faced with adversity was truly inspirational; she always made time for others and enjoyed life.
We will miss seeing Maria on our walks, but will always remember her kindness.
With love,
Kim, Kathy, Addy, Landon, and our dog Stella (the other Stella)

What a brave lady! I met Maria over several occasions while walking my dog. I did not know her for long unfortunately but she made a lasting impression with her positivity and acceptance in spite of what she was facing. It shone through how much she and her recently late husband had adored one another, “simply the best”, as she put it. Godspeed Maria, bless you.

Our sincere condolences to Maria’s family. She was a remarkable woman, truly one of the kindest people we have ever met. Her positivity and determination was an inspiration to all and she will be sadly missed. Eternal rest dear Maria.

My deepest condolences to Maria’s family. Please know that so many here, in her adopted Canada, loved her. Maria’s grace, strength and wonderful wit was what drew people to her. Maria always had a smile ready to greet everyone. Maria was a lovely gift to all who knew her.

Our dogs brought us together at the Bolton Dog Park around 10 years ago and from that stemmed a paw-fect friendship! We soon started having “dog-dates” – meeting so that our dogs could play together. This grew into morning hikes around the hills of Caledon with our buddies Hans, Ron and their dogs. Maria would regale us all with wonderful stories as Stella would disappear with my Loki in tow. Many a morning we were waiting for our dogs to reappear from the trails – they always did come back. Maria’s husband Ken would say that Stella was the most disloyal dog ever, but she did manage to always return! The 4 of us hiked together for many years, every morning. I knew at the time it was something incredibly special that we all shared.

To the staff and volunteers at Bethel Hospice, thank you seems inadequate. Your thoughtful, compassionate care of our Maria during her final days was truly touching – so dignified. For allowing Stella to be by Maria’s side – in a big comfy chair by her bed – was such a gift for Maria and for her friends. One of Maria’s friends saw Stella standing with her back legs on the chair, front legs on Maria’s bed looking lovingly at her. Although she couldn’t grab her camera quick enough, this “picture” will remain in my heart. I hope it will remain in your heart, too.

To all that loved our Maria, please know that her trusty sidekick, Stella, is now residing in my care, as I am her “Hairy Dogmother”. I promise to give Stella plenty of love, walks, cuddles and bikis – dog treats as Maria called them!

Thank you, for your gift of friendship, Maria. I hope to see you on the trails someday again.

Frances