HURLEY, Wisconsin - Maria Lucia Toquetti Vinci, 90, of Hurley, Wisconsin, passed into the loving arms of our Savior on Monday, February 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and boundless love. Born on June 21, 1934, in São Paulo, Brazil, Maria was the cherished daughter of Americo and Antonina Darci Toquetti and the eldest of five siblings. Her life was a testament to resilience, selflessness, and an unwavering devotion to family, faith, and the beauty of the world around her.

Maria's early years in Brazil shaped her indomitable spirit. As the eldest sibling in a humble family, she left school after second grade to work in a sock factory, helping to support her family. Despite limited formal education, Maria's brilliance shone through—she taught herself to speak and write fluently in Portuguese, Italian, and English, a remarkable feat that reflected her curiosity and determination. Her hands, which worked tirelessly to provide, also crafted beauty: a self-taught seamstress, she designed and sewed stunning clothes for herself and her sisters, crafting her own patterns with the elegance of fashion magazines.

On June 28, 1958, Maria married the love of her life, Saverio Vinci, in São Paulo. Their 62-year marriage was a journey of adventure and devotion, taking them from Brazil to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Milan, Italy, and finally to Hurley, Wisconsin, where they settled to raise their beautiful family. Together, they nurtured five children—Gina, Joanne, Greg, John, and Jason—instilling in them the values of love, hard work, and humility. Maria was preceded in death by Saverio in 2020, and their enduring partnership remains a testament of love and resilience.

Maria's heart was a haven for all. Known for her gentle, considerate nature, she never complained or boasted, instead pouring her energy into caring for others. The kitchen was her domain, where you would always find her, surrounded by the aromas of her extraordinary cooking—garlic and herbs drifting through the  air, a promise of savory home-cooked meals. A talented cook and baker, she transformed simple ingredients into culinary delights for all to share. Her vegetable garden, tended alongside Saverio, yielded bountiful harvests that she canned with care and shared with family and friends. Her vibrant flower beds were a source of pride, a reflection of her deep love for nature's simple beauty. Her apron now hangs on the back of a chair, holding within its pockets the memories we shared—moments of laughter, love, and lessons that will linger forever. Around her kitchen table, cherished memories were made, forever woven into the hearts of those who gathered there.

Maria's connection to the natural world was profound. She delighted in rocks, trees, wildlife, and animals of all kinds, feeding birds, stray cats, and dogs with open-hearted generosity. Animals seemed to sense her kindness, drawn to her as if by instinct. Her love extended to children, who adored her playful spirit and endless patience. To her grandchildren, she was a world of joy, her presence a source of comfort and delight. With the patience of a saint, she let them concoct all sorts of creations in her kitchen and build forts with every spare blanket and sheet, never minding the mess, only cherishing their joy. She treasured every moment with them, her eyes lighting up at their laughter and playfulness.

A woman of deep faith, Maria's prayers were a quiet force, her clutched rosary beads and lit candles a testament to her hope and love. As a devoted member of St. Mary's of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Hurley, Wisconsin, she found solace in her faith, which guided her through life's joys and challenges. She listened without judgment, offering a compassionate ear to anyone in need. Her humility belied her many talents, from gardening to sewing to her knack for creating healthy recipes. In later years, she became comically known as the "mulher das malas"—in Portuguese, "the lady with the suitcases"—traveling with her luggage in hand to visit her children and grandchildren, spreading her warmth and love wherever she went.

In her later years, Maria faced Alzheimer's disease with the same grace she brought to all of life's challenges. Her family's love grew even stronger, cherishing every moment with her. After a fall that resulted in a fracture, Maria moved to Villa Maria Nursing Home in Hurley, where she received dedicated care until her passing. Her family extends heartfelt thanks to the Villa Maria staff for their compassion and to Maria's dear friend and neighbor, Mary Saari, for sharing countless Meals on Wheels and companionship while Maria was still at home. Gratitude is also owed to Jerald Rocco and the team at Lakeside Memorial Chapel, Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, for their support and kindness with arrangements.

Maria is survived by her five children: Gina Mesich (Mike) of Fremont, Wisconsin; Joanne Bretall (Dave) of Marquette, Michigan; Greg Vinci of Ironwood, Michigan; John Vinci (Stacey) of Neenah, Wisconsin; and Jason Vinci of Wautoma, Wisconsin. She leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren and three great-grandchildren: Melissa Marie Mesich of Culver City, California, with her children James Keller, Boss Mesich, and Mario Mesich; Michael Mesich (Melissa) of Jackson, Wisconsin; David Bretall and Brittany Bretall of Marquette, Michigan; Gregory Vinci of Ironwood, Michigan; Donovan Vinci of Neenah, Wisconsin; and Devin Vinci of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Maria is also survived by her sister Helena Felipe of Brazil, with whom she shared a lifelong bond despite the distance, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A private family funeral will be held to honor Maria's life. To send online condolences or share a memory, please visit lakesidememorialchapel.com.

Maria Lucia Toquetti Vinci's life was a masterpiece of love, woven with threads of kindness, faith, and quiet strength. We are forever changed with her passing, and a legacy is gone. No one will be able to fill her shoes, but her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her, a gentle reminder to live with grace and to love without measure.