Hortense “Chinita” Salva (nee Barreyro)
January 27, 1943 – January 7, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hortense (“Chinita”) Salva.

Chinita was the beloved wife of 60 years to Ernesto, and beloved mother to Ernie (Georgia) and Josie (Bill), and cherished grandmother to Cassandra, Lucas, Violet, Leonidas, Zoe and Zachary. Survived by her siblings Carmen and Jose Maria. Chinita will be deeply missed by her many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends from Argentina and around the world.

Chinita was born into a loving family, and spent her childhood in Santa Fe, Argentina. During her youth, Chinita thrived in English and was an excellent student. As a result of her dedication and hard work, Chinita earned an academic scholarship to Douglas College at Rutgers University in New Jersey, U.S.A., the oldest women’s college in North America.

Chinita and Ernesto got married in 1964, beginning an epic love story that would last eight decades. After receiving her diploma, they returned to Argentina and later immigrated to Canada in April of 1968.

Chinita always loved kids and wanted to be a teacher. She started working for the Toronto Separate School Board in 1969 at St. Patrick where she was an E.S.L. teacher. By 1971, Chinita transferred to her beloved St. Francis of Assisi elementary school and worked there for many years, before finally ending her teaching career at St. Bede in 1999 after 30 years with the Board. She loved her work with children and was fulfilled in helping students learn and thrive in the classroom.

In retirement, Chinita loved travelling, reading, and completing crosswords and puzzles. She took advantage of this time by spending it with her grandchildren. She spoiled them with endearing acts of love and adoration, and plenty of delicious food.
She cherished her lifelong friendships with all the many teachers, still enjoying lunches and shopping together. Everybody loved her contagious laughter, infectious smile and witty sense of humour.

All of her family, near and far, will miss Chinita deeply and her loss will resonate with us forever. Her kindness, compassion, warmth, empathy, enthusiasm and generosity are a testament to how one person’s giant heart can move worlds. Our lives have been irrevocably changed by her passing, yet the light she shone will forever guide us, from here to eternity. A life well-lived, Chinita’s legacy will continue through her husband, children and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in honour of her memory.