GWEN VIOLA BUCCINI

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GWEN VIOLA BUCCINI

June 9, 1948 – April 15, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gwen Viola Buccini (nee Pucci), who left us on April 15, 2026, to be with her Lord and Saviour. Gwen's passing came after a brief but courageous journey with cancer. After first experiencing stomach pain in February, she was diagnosed in early March with stage 4 gynecological cancer that had already spread. In just six short weeks, she faced her illness with grace and strength, undergoing one round of chemotherapy before passing peacefully.

Gwen was predeceased by her parents, John and Margery; her brothers, Wayne and Ron; her sister-in-law, Shirley; and her cherished son, Anthony, to whom she was deeply devoted throughout her life.

She will be forever loved and missed by her daughters, Lisa-Marie and Christa, and her treasured grandchildren, Adriana, Romeo, and Michael, who brought her immense pride and joy. Whether at the rink, the court, or in the stands, she was always there—rarely missing a game and cheering them on with boundless love.

Gwen lived a life defined by service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others. She attended St. Mary's School and graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1967, where she served as Head Girl. Her connection to the Academy remained strong throughout her life, including more than a decade of service on the SMA Alumnae Board. She held a deep love, admiration, and respect for the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, whose values shaped her lifelong commitment to faith and service. Gwen's faith remained steadfast throughout her life—guiding her, sustaining her through life's challenges, and carrying her with strength and grace.

Professionally, Gwen worked as a teacher and librarian for 33 years—roles that reflected her love of learning and her desire to guide and support others. But it was through her personal mission—born out of her devotion to her son Anthony—that her impact and legacy would reach across the province and beyond.

In 1998, she founded Tabs for Wheelchairs, which began as a simple activity she and Anthony enjoyed doing together. Over the past 28 years, it has grown into a province-wide initiative involving more than 100 schools, 200 businesses and community groups, and hundreds of individuals. Through the collection of millions of tabs, the program has helped provide over 70 specialized wheelchairs to children in need—an extraordinary reflection of Gwen's vision, compassion, and perseverance. Gwen also founded Open Arms Independent Living, establishing her own charity to raise funds for a new group home for Anthony—another testament to her commitment to supporting others and strengthening her community.

Her lifelong dedication to service and excellence was recognized through numerous honours over the years. In 2002, she received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in recognition of her contributions to public life. She was named a YMCA-YWCA Woman of Distinction nominee in 2013. In 2015, she was awarded St. Mary's Academy's Marion Award for Excellence, celebrating her unwavering commitment to service and generosity. In 2025, she was further honoured as a recipient of the Winnipeg 150 Medal, recognizing her meaningful contributions to the city.

Gwen was truly one of a kind—a selfless, radiant presence whose smile and infectious laugh could light up any room. She was full of joy, boundless energy, and kindness. She never missed a birthday or anniversary, always making others feel celebrated and loved—often with a phone call, balloons, flowers, or a heartfelt card. Gwen was a force of nature, an inspiration to all who knew her, and a bright light whose goodness touched countless lives. To many, she was simply the sweetest soul—an absolute gem. Her legacy of love, generosity, and service will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her. She has truly earned her wings.

Her family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Portage la Prairie ER, the HSC Gynecological Oncology team, and the compassionate nurses at HSC Women's Hospital for their exceptional care and kindness.

A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2 at St. Mary's Academy. Mass will begin at 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow in the cafeteria. We encourage attendees to bring their collection of tabs to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations in support of Tabs for Wheelchairs may be made at canadahelps.org/ en/charities/tabs-for-wheelchairs-inc/.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 25, 2026