January 1, 1930 - May 6, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
Mary passed away on May 6, 2024, at Peace Arch Hospital. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and warmth that will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. She was 94 years old.
She was born on January 1, 1930, to parents Federico Padula and Assunta Padula (Gargaro) in Vancouver BC. On Georgia St., she grew up with her brother Tony, cousins Don, Josie, and Joe along with her best friend Rose attending Strathcona Elementary. Summers were spent in Straiton with other cousins Vince and Mary.
She was proud to grow up in East Vancouver, living and working there as a retail clerk at Forests, then Cops Shoes and went on to be manager. She was active in provincial politics and was a consultant for shoe stores in Vancouver.
Mary and her Husband Henry Latka were married on August 15, 1949, and resided in Vancouver and then Burnaby for 42 years. Their life together was full of family, friends, and fun with cruises, and travel, combined, they were married for 63 years.
Mary is predeceased by Henry (2012) and is survived by her beloved daughter Lori Bazso (Les) and her grandchildren, Suzanne (Alex), Juilia, Nick, and Ted (Eri).
She is also survived by her brother Tony Padula (Hazel) and her three nephews Cory Padula (Vivian), Rob, Michelle, Connor; Darrell Padula (Susan) and Carey Padula (Laureen), Nicole (Jack), Bryan. Mary's presence in their lives brought immeasurable joy and her memory will continue to be a guiding light for her family.
Mary was more than just a mother and grandmother; she was the epitome of kindness, generosity, and humor. Her quick wit and infectious laughter brightened the lives of all who knew her. Whether through a joke to lighten the mood, or to give straight forward honest advice, Mary had a remarkable ability to touch the hearts of those around her.
In 2012 Mary moved to the Pacifica in Surrey where she made many cherished friends like Bill Hutcherson. Her time at the Pacifica, where the staff also became friends, was full of adventures. She even went back to retail during Covid running the lobby store.
She took great pride in watching her granddaughters grow into strong, independent women, traveling around the world to watch them both dance. Mary's home was always filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of her delicious Italian food and famous pies.
She blessed nieces and nephews with memories of summers in Osoyoos, hosted countless family celebrations, opened her door to visitors, and her 36 Godchildren, and many, many, friends. She was always up for a joke or a prank, she loved life.
As we mourn the loss of Mary, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the countless lives she touched along the way. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation.
A Celebration of Mary's life will be held on May 17th at 11:00 am at The Good Shepherd Church, 2250 150 Street, Surrey.