June 12, 1975 – February 8, 2024
It is with profound sadness that the family of Marlene Ferreira Di Raimo (nee Garrelhas) announces her unexpected passing during the early hours of February 8th, 2024 at the young age of 48. Marlene bravely faced a multitude of health challenges over the years without definitive answers. Despite her health challenges, she approached each day with courage and strength; her resilience was inspiring.
Born on Thursday, June 12th, 1975 in Toronto, Marlene touched the lives of many as a beloved daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her firstborn Matthew Garrelhas, her former husband Ben Di Raimo and their 2 children Savannah Di Raimo, and Nicholas Di Raimo, her parents, Manuel and Conceição Garrelhas, her older brother Carl Ribau (Jenny) and her younger brother Phil Garrelhas (Jen). She also leaves behind nieces, nephews, cousins, uncles, aunts and extended family members who will deeply miss her presence in their lives.
Marlene found great joy in the kitchen, where she delighted in cooking and embraced the opportunity to experiment with new recipes. She loved gardening and had a keen interest in holistic health, dedicating time to learning and researching homeopathic remedies. Recently, she had set her sights on a new goal, driven by a strong ambition to further her education in paralegal and accounting studies. Her thirst for knowledge and her adventurous spirit will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
In keeping with Marlene’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private service will be held on Saturday, February 17th at St. John’s Dixie Cemetery and Visitation Centre, 737 Dundas St. E, Mississauga, (Dundas & Cawthra), in Mississauga from 6-8 PM. Close family and friends are invited to come together to honour her memory and lay her to rest.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your charity of choice in Marlene’s memory.
Marlene will be forever remembered and missed but will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
4 Guestbook Entries
February 15, 2024 | Daniel and Sharlene Puckett
Sharlene and I send our heartfelt condolences to our extended Garrelhas family. We know how much Marlene will be missed every day, simply taken too soon. We miss you Marlene, you and your family are in our thoughts and in our heart.
February 18, 2024 | Helena Costa
To the Garrelhas Family,
We extend our condolences to all of you. It was shocking and devastating to hear of this loss.Marlene will forever be remembered for her infectious laughter, energy and resiliency. She will live on in the memories we forged together. May you rest in peace Marlene!
The Costa and Bettencourt Family
August 29, 2024 | Jennifer Keigher
I am very sorry to just hear of her passing, Marlene had a beautiful smile and a great spirit. We worked together at ICE, and I want to send my deepest condolences to all her friends and family for their loss
December 6, 2024 | Nicholas DiRaimo
Love you brah