Obituary of Palmina "Pam" De Leo

November 3, 1958 – April 11, 2026

Passed away peacefully in the early morning of April 11, 2026, at the age of 67, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished wife of Antonio De Leo for 51 beautiful years. Her legacy of love lives on through her children, Teresa and her husband Jason, Nick, and Stella, and in the hearts of her grandchildren, Mea, Marco, and Romeo, who were the lights of her life.

Beloved daughter of Vittoria and the late Salvatore. Dear daughter-in-law of the late Nicola and Teresina. Treasured sister of Teresa, Rosa, Maria, Cosimo, and Damiana. She will be missed by her many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and her warmth will be remembered by her many nieces and nephews across Canada, Italy, Switzerland, and Germany. She is reunited in peace with her late granddaughter, Gabriella.

Palmina’s journey began in a small town in Italy, but her heart found its home in Canada in 1974. A woman of remarkable work ethic, her career path took her from Electronic Craftsmen and Ontario Glove to the University of Waterloo all while raising a family with laughter, grace and love. During her time at the University, she took on many roles, from housekeeping to the Conference Centre at Ron Eydt Village, eventually retiring as the Resident Life Coordinator of the Columbia Lake Townhouses. In this role, the University became her second family; she was a "mother away from home" to many students and treated her colleagues with the same kindness and devotion she showed her own family.

A woman of unwavering faith and a dedicated member of St. Michael’s Parish, she welcomed all who entered the church with a warm smile and friendly conversation. Pam’s door was always open; to enter her home was to be greeted with a warm meal, spirited conversation, and a seat at her table. Her legacy is one of selfless giving and a fierce love for her family. Her life was a gift to all who knew her, and her memory is a blessing we will carry forever. 

To honor Palmina’s life of service and love, family and friends are invited to visit at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael Catholic Church, 80 University Ave. W., Waterloo, on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Parkview Cemetery.

In memory of Palmina’s generous spirit, donations to the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging would be appreciated by the family and may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.