Maria Porzia Cazzanti

Maria Porzia Cazzanti, 73, passed away peacefully May 20, 2014 at her home. She was born November 22, 1940. Originally from the Southern Italian region of Puglia, Maria, her parents and five siblings moved to Milan, in Northern Italy, after World War II. There Maria completed her studies to be a teacher and met Mario, her future husband of 44 years. Maria taught elementary school for 25 years, and was known by her fellow teachers and students for her high standards, her passion and her sense of humor. Maria retired from teaching when she, her husband and their two children moved to Rochester, but her love of teaching and for sharing her passions with others never retired! In Rochester she taught private lessons in Italian, and quickly mastered quilting, becoming a teacher of quilting techniques to her ever growing circle of friends. Maria loved entertaining at her house, and cooked delicious Italian meals for her friends and family. She became a popular cooking teacher at the Italian store Sopra Sotto in Rochester, where she shared her passion for cooking and teaching with enthusiastic patrons who left her lessons with full stomachs. Maria was also active in the choir at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, sharing her love of music with the congregation. In all her endeavors, Maria always showed generosity, always putting the needs of others, and especially her children, ahead of her own. She was a kind soul who enlivened everyone's day. Maria is survived by her husband, Mario; two sons, Luca (Joy) and Stefano; grandsons, Giacomo and Nicolo`; siblings, Antonio, Mauro, Giulia, Rosa and Pietro Porzia and numerous nieces and nephews. Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Giacomo and Angela (Magliocco) Porzia. A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 am Saturday, May 24, 2014 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 5455 50th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN with Father Thomas Loomis officiating. A visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 pm Friday, May 23, 2014 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at Via del Mare Cemetery in Massa Fiscaglia (FE) Italy. Memorial contributions may be to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 411 2nd St. NW., Rochester, MN 55901 or to Holy Spirit Catholic Church Choir Fund