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GWEN VIOLA BUCCINI
Date of Passing: Apr 15, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryGWEN VIOLA BUCCINI
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
Condolences & Memories (11 entries)
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My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Your mom was an amazing lady. Every time I would see collecting tabs at our school, she was always smiling. She is an inspiration to me. - Posted by: Joanne Isfeld (Friend, Christa’s grade 4 teacher) on: May 07, 2026
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With heartfelt sympathy on the sad passing of your dear mother. A beautiful tribute, it's evident she touched alot of lives along the way. 'I would like to be known as an intelligent woman, a loving woman, a woman who teaches by being ' - Maya Angelou. Sorry for your loss. Lynda Ruban - Posted by: Lynda Ruban (staff at the HSC Foundation) on: May 02, 2026
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Dearest Lisa-Marie, Christa and family members, We are so sorry for your tremendous loss! You two young ladies went to school with my children. We will always remember your Mom as a ray of sunshine and so full of compassion and caring for all she met. Her obituary captures her spirit to a “t”. She will be greatly missed by all the spirits she touched! All our love and prayers. - Posted by: Josephine and Bob Mots (Friends) on: Apr 30, 2026
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My sincere condolences Lisa-Marie and Christa. I have known Gwen for many years. Way back to when we went to St. Mary's Cathedral, then St. Mary's Academy and when we taught together at Holy Cross Elementary. She was good friends with my cousin Janet Paukovic. Gwen was such a cheerful and positive person. Her laughter and smile were infectious. I truly admired her as a wonderful person. She will be greatly missed. May her memory be a blessing. - Posted by: Elizabeth Odgers (Friend and colleague) on: Apr 27, 2026
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Gwen’s attributes can be described with many complimentary words. I know Gwen as a holy person. Joan Chittister, OSB, describes holiness as “ the presence of God in the ordinary moments of daily life where one brings light to the world manifested through compassion, keeping one eye on the needs of others”. This reflects how Gwen lived her life. Gwen is blessed among women and we are blessed to have known her. Condolences to Lisa-Marie, Christa, Gwen’s family and friends. - Posted by: Barb Schwab (Colleague/Friend) on: Apr 27, 2026
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I also went to SMA and taught at Holy Cross School, but not at the same time. I had many places collecting the tabs, from stores, schools, golf tournaments and friends. I can't believe she is gone! My heart goes out to her family. God Bless all of you. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Diane Bourbonnais (Friend, supporter of Tabs) on: Apr 26, 2026
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Starting my new life in Canada I first meet Gwen when I volunteered to help her with a school trip (she was my grandsons grade 3 teacher) from that trip I went on to volunteer at Holy Cross school and worked alongside many wonderful people Gwen was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met and my life has been enriched by spending time with her Godspeed and God bless you Gwen 🏴 - Posted by: Irene Barclay (Friend) on: Apr 26, 2026
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Ms Lisa-Marie and Ms Christa. I was totally shocked to hear about your Mom’s passing and I send my most heartfelt condolences. Your mom and I remained in touch for the last 55 years, often meeting for brunch when I passed thru Winnipeg. I can honestly say that meeting her always brought joy to my life as I’m sure she did to everyone she knew … I know both of you and your children will greatly miss her.. My Love and Prayers go out to all of you. Wanda - Posted by: Wanda Pucci (Ex Sister-in-law) on: Apr 25, 2026
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We met many years ago at Holy Cross school. Lots of memories of laughter and tears. I am sad she has passed. We were one month apart in our birthdays. Now she can rest. Well done good and faith ful servant. ❤️🙏 - Posted by: Linda. Bartlette (Friend) on: Apr 25, 2026
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So very sorry!! Eternal Rest Grant to Gwen O Lord, and let Perpetual Light Shine on Gwen" Gwen has been picking up my collection of tabs bi-annually. The first time she came, she brought Tim Horton's coffee and a muffin and a card. She did that as introducing herself. Over tea, she told me about Anthony and . his help. She encouraged me to watch "The Chosen" Ever grateful! God has spoken "Well done, Good and Faithful Servant" Jesus and Heaven are rejoicing - Gwen is home. - Posted by: Josie Wasney (Tabs for Wheelchairs friend) on: Apr 25, 2026
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Gwen and my dad were first cousins. As a child we saw a lot of Gwen, and her family. Gwen’s son Anthony and my son Derik were in the same independent living home together. Derik was devastated when Anthony passed. Every year, even after Anthony passed Gwen would phone Derik and wish him a happy birthday. Gwen was an amazing person. My heart goes out to Lisa Maria, Christa and their families. May she rest in peace. She’s back with Anthony. - Posted by: Barb Brako (Relative) on: Apr 25, 2026