Gioconda Maria Zumpano Mason
Surrounded by her family, our beloved mother, nanna, and great nanna passed away peacefully at sunrise on February 11, 2016. Gioconda Mason was born Gioconda Maria Zumpano on July 31, 1915 to Italian immigrants, Emilia Iaccino Zumpano and Raffaele Zumpano, in Salt Lake City. An accomplished actress, pianist, and World Champion typist, she housed tremendous talent and unwavering spunk inside her tiny frame. Being both talented and beautiful, it was no surprise when Robert Mason fell in love with her. They were married December 23, 1946, raised 3 children and many dogs and cats together, and did not part again until 2009 when Bob passed away. Sadly, her loving son, Ralph, passed away only 2 months later, but she gracefully rejoined them on what would have been Ralph's 62nd birthday. She remains dearly loved and will be deeply missed.
Gio was preceded in death by her parents; husband Robert; son Ralph; and sister Ida Panarello. She is survived by her daughters Robbie (Dennis) Ferm and Judy (Dana) Petersen; grandchildren Miles (Lisa) Mason, Emily Mason, Devin (Mark) Godfrey, Mason Petersen, Austa (Chris) Feller, and Andrea Hansen; and great grandchildren Clayton and Marley Mason.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Family members are welcome to attend a private funeral service at the City Cemetery on Thursday, February 18th, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the animal charity of your choice.