07/23/2026
Maria Rosa, a 110-year-old Toronto resident and now Canada’s oldest living person, says the secret to a long life can be summed up in one simple sentence:
“Love everyone.” ❤️
Born on September 17, 1915, Maria has lived through World War I, World War II, the Great Depression, and even survived COVID-19 three times. She has also witnessed the leadership of 17 Canadian prime ministers and worked as a seamstress and factory supervisor during World War II.
Her daughter, Kathy Sinisalo, says Maria learned one important lesson during the Great Depression that she shared with her family throughout her life:
“Waste nothing.”
Maria believed in making the most of everything—even using the last bit of butter left on the wrapper instead of throwing it away.
In her younger years, Maria loved driving and had a passion for fashion. Even today, she enjoys dressing well and looking her best. She was recently honored at The Village of Humber Heights in Toronto as Canada’s oldest living person.
Despite losing many loved ones, including her 103-year-old sister earlier this year, Maria continues to live with kindness, compassion, and love.
Whenever people ask her the secret to reaching 110, she always gives the same heartfelt answer:
“Love everyone. Everyone matters. If you treat people with kindness, they will love you in return.” ❤️
