Laura Albina Zanchetta, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026 at the age of 85, at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie, surrounded by much love and family.
Born on March 28, 1940 in Treviso, Italy, Laura’s early life focused on looking after her younger siblings. It was a life defined by kindness, caring and deep devotion to the people she loved. She earned high honours in school and made many friends.
In 1960, she immigrated to Canada with her family and settled in Toronto. She married Gino Carlo Zanchetta in 1961 and began her family. Laura had always wanted to be a mother and strived to be the best one ever. She built a home filled with warmth, laughter and generosity, and her presence was a steady source of comfort and strength to her family. Her main focus was always on the children, feeding and caring for them. Even the neighbourhood children enjoyed the nutella on bread and other Italian snacks prepared by Laura.
Once Laura’s children were enrolled in school full time, she began working outside the home for Eaton’s and Levis Strauss. She had strong convictions and fought to maintain them. She was never happier than when her grandchildren were born. Robert, Andrew, Hannah and Noah were the apples of her eyes.
She loved them more than one would think possible and celebrated every achievement with them. “Always be there with your shoulder” she would tell her children as she was always there with hers, supporting each of her children and grandchildren when they needed it.
Laura is lovingly remembered by her children, Lorella (David), Alberto (Jerry) and Fabiana (Monika), her grandchildren, Robert (Tiffany), Andrew (Lea), Hannah, and Noah (Marielle), as well as many siblings, nieces and nephews and friends whose lives she touched. She was predeceased by Gino Zanchetta.
Those who knew Laura will remember her for her warm smile, her caring spirit, her wisdom, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and loved. Often through a shared meal or a thoughtful word, she gave love freely and wholeheartedly.
Her family takes comfort in knowing she passed peacefully, surrounded by the people who loved her most. The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and support staff in the Cardiac and Renal floor at Royal Victoria Hospital for the care they gave our mother.
Visitation and funeral will be held on Monday, March 9 at Steckley-Gooderham in Barrie. The family invites those who knew Laura to honour her memory through acts of kindness and love to those around you. She lived by these principles every day.
She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered.
Online memories and condolences may be forwarded via www.steckleygooderham.com