The family of Mrs. Florence Rommell (née Snowden) is heartbroken to announce her unexpected passing on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the age of 78. She was a devoted wife, cherished mother, and beloved grandmother whose presence will be deeply missed.
Florence was born on November 4, 1946, in Toronto, Ontario. She grew up in a close-knit family with her parents, Evelyn and Charles Snowden, and her younger brother, Robert Snowden. Surrounded by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Florence held dear the memories of family camping trips to Midland, Ontario. A lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Florence’s love for hockey began in childhood and endured throughout her life.
Faith was a cornerstone of Florence’s upbringing. The Snowden family was actively involved in church, and as a teenager, Florence even considered a calling to the Anglican sisterhood. She was also deeply involved in the Girl Guides of Canada, a commitment that continued into her adult years.
On February 3, 1968, Florence married the love of her life, David Rommell. Their union spanned 58 years, built on love, faith, and partnership. As a military wife, Florence gracefully adapted to the many relocations and responsibilities that came with her husband’s service. Together, they lived in Toronto, ON, Petawawa, ON, Lahr, Germany, Borden, ON, Oromocto, NB, Halifax, NS, Sioux Lookout, ON, and Ottawa, ON. In 1990, they made their final move to Thunder Bay, ON, where they put down roots and built a lasting home for the next 35 years.
Above all else, Florence’s greatest joy was her family. She loved her children dearly and was extremely proud of her daughters, Sara and Rebecca. She was a hands-on, devoted grandmother who could always be found driving her grandchildren to hockey practice, school, work, or playgroups. Her fierce love and selfless care made her the heart and matriarch of the Rommell family.
Florence is lovingly remembered by her husband, David Rommell; daughters, Sara Rommell-Gray and Rebecca (Dana) Piccinato; grandchildren, Brandon (Deanna) Rommell of Edmonton, Joshua and MacKenzie Gray, and Ava and Matthew Piccinato. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Patti Snowden; niece, Jennifer Snowden; and nephew, Aaron Snowden.
She was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn and Charles Snowden; brother, Robert Snowden; and her in-laws, Marjorie and Stuart Rommell.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Thunder Bay Emergency Services and Father Marco for their compassion. A special thank you to all friends and family who have offered their love and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Underground Gym in Florence’s memory.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church – 130 REDWOOD AVE. W, Thunder Bay. To honour Florence’s deep love of hockey and baseball, we invite guests to wear jerseys representing their favourite teams—especially the Toronto Blue Jays and the Toronto Maple Leafs, which held a special place in her heart.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
