October 27th 1927 – April 14th 2019
It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Juana while surrounded by her loving family at the North Shore Health Network in Blind River. Predeceased by her husband Isidro Iturregui and her beloved daughter Jeanne Gabcan (Iturregui). Left to mourn are her cherished sons Joseph (Irene), Joë and Carlos (Marie-Anne). Fondly remembered by her daughter-in-law Rita Iturregui. Dearly loved Amama of Vince (Lynn), Crystal (Paul), Samantha (Matt), Daniel, Joseph, Amaya (Cody), Zackary and Ariana and her great grandchildren Mikaela, Caleb, Enara, Cameron, Amelina, Maiana, Kaia, Jakson, Isidora and Makenzie. Predeceased by her parents Francisco Zuazua and Constancia Aguirregoitia and siblings Jose Zuazua, Maria Luisa Zuazua and Francisco Zuazua. Also predeceased by her husband Isidro’s sister Mari Carmen Iturregui and his brothers Antonio Iturregui, Manuel Iturregui and Esteban Iturregui. Juana will be missed by her family in Spain including her sisters-in-law Antonia Iturregui, Marí Ángeles Iturregui (José Luis Izagirre) and brother-in-law José Luis Iturregui as well as many nieces and nephews.
Juana was very proud of her Basque roots but sought out adventure and left her home country. Ultimately, she embraced the Canadian culture and all this country had to offer. She lived an amazing life and had many experiences. Though she faced challenges, with the support of her little family, they managed to prevail and carve out a home for themselves.
Always quick to greet her grandchildren with open arms and a warm “Amamatxune”, her home was welcoming, loving and her kitchen was the heart of the family. She cared for her family and guests making sure everyone was well fed with their favorite foods; we will miss her fresh homemade baking and her rice pudding lining the counter. She was sharp, witty and strong willed. Juana had a strong love of family and knew how to balance tradition and independence. Her presence and guidance as our family matriarch will be deeply missed.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and entire staff at North Shore Health Network in Blind River for their exceptional care and compassion. If desired, the family appreciates donations to North Shore Health Network Palliative Care, Blind River site.
Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of life on Saturday April 20th at 2 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #189 in Blind River, Ontario.