Donata “Donna” Iacobelli

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Donata “Donna” Iacobelli, who was called home on November 1, 2024. Befitting her pure heart and life of faith, she leaves us on All Saints’ Day, a reminder of the angel she was among us.

Donna was predeceased by her husband of 66 years and best friend, Angelo Michele Iacobelli (2019). Together, they built a legacy of love and commitment that now sustains us. Though we grieve, we are comforted by their joyful reunion in Heaven. She was also predeceased by her beloved parents, Gino and Ersilia Fanelli, whose strength and spirit she carried forward.

Donna leaves behind a devoted family who adored her: her children Lena (Tony) Romeo and Sil (Sue) Iacobelli; her grandchildren Vince (Erin) Romeo, Mike (Monica) Romeo, Danielle (Joel) Steingart, and Michele Iacobelli; and her greatest pride and joy—her great-grandchildren Apollo, Adriano, Andreas, Rachel, Madelyn, and Evelyn. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Iria D’Andrea, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, in both Canada and Italy and countless friends who felt her love as if they were family. Donna’s love and spirit will live on in each of them, and her legacy will be carried on by those she loved most.

Born on January 4, 1936, in Casalvieri, Italy, Donna immigrated to Canada in 1958 with her husband and young family, driven by dreams and determination for a brighter future. Together, they created a beautiful life in Canada that was rich in tradition and family values.  For over 30 years, she dedicated herself to caring for the residents of Marion Villa with deep compassion, kindness, and a commitment that touched many lives.

Donna was a friend to everyone she met, radiating warmth and always finding the best in those around her. Above all, her family was her greatest treasure, and her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she expressed her love through her Italian cooking. Her signature sauce, hand-rolled gnocchi, and lasagna were more than meals—they were gifts of comfort and togetherness. Her kitchen became a gathering place and her meals the vessel bringing her family together for Sunday dinners. She was a guiding presence and a steady, loving hand in the lives of her grandchildren, pouring her heart into each of them and helping shape who they are today. Her warmth and influence will forever remain in our hearts.

As we say goodbye, we know her spirit lives on in every shared meal, every smile, and every act of kindness that reflects her beautiful soul. We will carry her with us always, inspired by her example to live simply, love fully, and find joy in life’s simplest pleasures.

Our family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the doctors, PSWs, and entire care teams at LHSC and Kensington Village for the care they provided to Donna. She was grateful for every act of service and support.

Visitation will take place at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A funeral mass to honour Donna’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Parish, 345 Lyle Street, London, on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

For those unable to attend the funeral mass in person, a live stream is available at the following link:  Livestream of the Funeral Mass for Donna Iacobelli

Entombment to follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery. In Donna’s memory, we invite you to gather around a table, share a meal, and spread love through food as she always did.

“They say we earn our wings in Heaven, but those who knew Donna know she walked through life with hers already.”