GIRARD - Maria Cario, 81, passed away peacefully, Friday morning, December 20, 2024, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Maria was born January 2, 1943, in Falerna, Calabria, Italy, the beloved daughter of the late Odoardo and Giuseppa Maruca. She immigrated to the United States on December 12, 1961, with a heart full of dreams and a determination to build a new life. After settling in Cleveland for a few years, Maria found her home in Girard, where she raised her family with love, care, and strength.

Maria worked as a talented seamstress at Matina's Bridal for many years, where she used her remarkable skills to craft beautiful garments. Yet, it was her unwavering dedication to her family that truly defined her. She devoted her life to ensuring the happiness and well-being of her loved ones, offering them boundless love, warmth, and support.

Maria was known for her passion of cooking and baking, and her home was always filled with the delicious smells of her latest creations, shared generously with family and friends. Whether she was preparing a meal, potting flowers or knitting a scarf, Maria's hands were always busy with something made from the heart.

Her strength, resilience, and devotion to her family were unmatched. She faced life's challenges with grace and courage, always putting others first. Above all, it was the moments spent with her family that Maria cherished most. Her legacy will live on in the countless memories of family gatherings, meals shared, and the love that she so freely gave.

Maria's memory will be cherished forever by her three sons, Joseph (Donna) Cario, Edward Cario and Ron (Carla) Cario all of Girard; eight grandchildren, Kyle Cario, Andrew Cario and Joey Cario, Alisa Cario (Andrew), and Jenna Cario, Juliana Cario, Cristiana Cario, and Nicholas Cario; two great-grandchildren; three brothers, Angelo (Ida) Maruca, Nicola Maruca and Ettore Maruca and many extended family members.

Her husband of 49 years, Federico Cario, whom she married July 27, 1961, passed away July 31, 2010. Maria is also preceded in death by her brothers Tomasso Maruca, Antonio Maruca, Rosario Maruca and Ezio Maruca.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at Kinnick Funeral Home 222 S. State St. Girard.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the funeral home.

Entombment will take place at Girard Liberty Union Cemetery where Maria will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

In lieu of flowers, Maria's family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor's favorite charity.