In memory of

Maria Rosa "Rose" Borges

February 1, 2021

Born in Valencia Spain, Maria Rosa “Rose” Borges, 97, of Toronto, Ontario died on February 1, 2021.

Rose was predeceased by her husband Al and sister Carmen “Mensi” Almiñana-Vilar (José Luis); and survived by her daughter Sylvia; nephew and godson José Luis Vilar (Tina); nieces Susana Sanchez-Vilar and Patricia Muñoz-Vilar (Jésus); nephews David Vilar (Théresa), Pedro Lopes (Rosa), Carlos Lopes (Marylou), Ed Lopes (Marty), as well as her many great-nieces and great-nephews in Canada, Spain, UK and US: Jessica and Jonathan, Juan, Marta and Ana, Paloma, Luke and Nicolette, and great-great-nephew Silas.

Rose was an intrepid and prolific world traveler, and enjoyed many friendships (some of which started in primary school, up to those made more recently at The Sumach by Chartwell). After a long career in Nursing (in the UK and Canada), Rose had a very long and happy retirement traveling, cooking, studying yoga and tai chi, swimming, attending TSO and National Ballet performances, seeing as many films as possible, and dining out. She will be remembered for being a great cook and hostess, keeping regular hair appointments, and always being available to support her family and friends – whether for food and conversation, or tea and sympathy.

Rose will be cremated and her remains scattered in her three favourite places in the world (as soon as international travel is permitted) as per her wishes.

Due to the pandemic and at Rose’s request, no funeral service will be held. Please raise a glass (preferably shiraz or champagne) and remember Rose fondly. She would like that.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the many people involved in Rose’s care, especially during her last (and most challenging) year:
Dr. Mei Hwang
The Sumach by Chartwell Nursing Staff
LHINS: Greg Mann, PSWs Christina and Raphaela
All the Doctors, Nurses and Staff at St. Michael’s Hospital, Palliative Unit – you are all truly world-class

The family is requesting that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to: The St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Guestbook

(5 of 19)

Sylvia Borges (Daughter)

Entered February 3, 2021 from Toronto

As Rose's only child I will go first:
I am grateful every day for both of my parents and the great families I was born into. My dear Dad passed away over 30 years ago, so Mom and I have relied on each other not just as mother and daughter, but as best friends, supporters, and sometimes (friendly) combatants.
As a "control enthusiast" Rose wasn't always supportive of my choices (ie, insane teenage moods including questionable hairstyles and outfits, globetrotting, boyfriends/fiancées, or my fashion sense), but she always loved me unconditionally.
Mom was a great lover of music but was definitely not a gifted singer. Her rendition of Rod Stewart's "Do You Think I'm Sexy?" sung off-key in a falsetto shall remain one of the great musical highlights of my life.
I will miss our travel adventures, concert and film outings, and all the things we loved to do together (NYC escapades, hot air ballooning in Sonoma, traveling, laughing, eating, and watch reruns of Downton Abbey to name a few).
Mom passed away as the last note of a Rachmaninov (her favourite composer) concerto played on the radio. It was truly a perfect way for her to slip away from me.

Susan Squires (Friend)

Entered February 4, 2021 from Scarborough

RIP Rose. you are gone but will never be forgotten. It is an honor to have known you and your lovely daughter Sylvia. My deepest sympathy to the family.

Terhi McDougall (Friend of daughter Sylvia)

Entered February 4, 2021 from Finalnd

My deepest sympathy is with you.

Dagmar Scott (Friend)

Entered February 4, 2021 from Toronto

My Dear Sylvia,
What a beautiful picture of your Mom. I am so sad that I never met her but feel like I knew her through you. May she Rest In Peace. I am keeping you in my heart.
Sincere condolences, Dagmar

Marissa Gardner (Friend)

Entered February 4, 2021 from Burlington

Dearest Sylvia,
My deepest sympathy at Rose's passing, I know you shared a special relationship and you ensured she was cared for and loved to the last, she lived a full and happy life and left us all with the wonderful gift of you. May she rest in peace.