Obituary of Marie Fiora

Marie (Grande) Fiora, of Brookfield, beloved wife of Theodore Fiora, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loved ones, on Wednesday, October 16th.  She was born in Bronx, NY on May 19, 1931, daughter of the late Pasquale and Josephine Grande. 

Marie was proud to have been the first in her family to graduate college. She began her 29 year teaching career in West Hartford and ended it at Center School in Brookfield. She loved teaching and touched the lives of many. 

Marie loved to travel, and she was especially happy at the beach. She was an avid letter writer, corresponding day to day happenings and major life events with friends and relatives. Marie took great pride in her ability to “repurpose” things. She loved the children’s author Tomie dePaola and all of his “very Italian” characters. She would often be seen playing Solitare or Scrabble.

Marie had a unique ability to see a brightness in all people and situations. She was known for her infallible patience, warm greetings and silly expressions that always brought a smile or a laugh. Her positive nature uplifted those around her. 

In addition to her husband, Theodore, she will be dearly remembered by her children, Mark Fiora and his wife, Marisa, and Marcella Olson and her husband, Scott; her grandchildren, Gabrielle, Evan, Riley, and Grace.  She is also survived by her nieces, Agnes Morris, and Pam Carides; and her nephew, John Grande, Jr.  She was predeceased by her three siblings, and five stepsiblings. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 19th at 10:00am at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church in Brookfield.  Burial will take place privately in Center Cemetery, Goshen. 

The family will receive friends at the Brookfield Funeral Home, 786 Federal Road, Brookfield, on Friday evening between the hours of 4:00 – 7:00pm.