Carmela Zanutel

With great sadness we announce the passing of Carmela Zanutel (nee Proia) on December 16, 2025. Born March 14,1931 in Fontana Liri, in the Province of Frosinone (Lazio region), Italy.

In the early 50s, Carmela, her sister Nina, and their husbands left Italy in search of new opportunities. They first moved to France and while living there, Carmela’s daughter, Anna Maria, was born. In 1957, the families moved to Toronto, and after seven years she became a mother for the second time to her son, Gian Renzo.

Carmela worked as a housekeeper and nanny, worked in factories and catering, and was also employed at Maclean-Hunter Publishing. At home Carmela loved her role of doting Nonna, and enjoyed cooking for family, friends and neighbours. Her fresh homemade pastas, stuffed artichokes, and countless other dishes will be missed by all who had the pleasure to savour them. Her plentiful garden and manicured flowerbeds were proof of her green thumb and love of gardening and only added to the freshness and quality of her home-cooked meals.

During summers, Carmela and her family returned to Italy to maintain and strengthen close relationships with her parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and their families.

Carmela is survived by her daughter Anna (Ernie) Barteski and son John (Dawn) Zanutel. Grandchildren Corey (Shukyi) Barteski, Cameron and Vivian Zanutel, and great granddaughter Caiya.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made in honour of Carmela to CAMH or to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada

Private arrangements have been made.