Margarita (Cania) Shqina, 83, of Worcester died Saturday, August 9th in Holden Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family. Her husband of 60 years, Polizoi Shqina died in 2022. She leaves her children Bersan Shqina and his wife, Eva of Worcester, Mirela Thanasi and her husband, Kristaq of Albania, and Edlira Shameti and her husband, Maxi of Albania; two brothers, Petraq Cania and his wife, Gina of Worcester, Edmond Cania and his wife, Lida of Italy; two sisters, Valentina Toslluku her husband, Sofokli of Albania and Yolanda Kuqo and her husband, Todi of Albania; five grandchildren, Elena Softa and her husband, Enrik, Margarita Shqina, Joana Thanasi and her husband, Florent Perron, Arthemis Shqina, and Niko Shqina; three great grandchildren, Sophie Softa, Aria Softa, Drini Perron; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Aneta Konicioti.
Margarita immigrated to the United States in 2003 after first visiting in 2001 with her beloved husband. She embraced her new life with warmth, energy, and a deep appreciation for the opportunities it brought. She was a member of St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church. Margarita was a math and physics teacher and she dedicated her life to educate many generations of students. She has cherished their respect and admiration for years and her eyes would lite up when some would approach her and say do you remember me? Even after decades she would recognize her students and spoke highly of them.
Margarita had a passion for cooking, sewing, music, and art, and she approached each with love and creativity. She truly loved life, finding joy in the simple moments as well as the grand adventures. She cherished time spent with her family, whether at holiday gatherings, special celebrations, or everyday visits filled with laughter and conversation.
Travel was one of her greatest joys, and she especially loved returning to Albania and visiting Italy, where she could connect with her heritage and explore beautiful places. She also enjoyed her days at the Senior Day Care, where she made friends, shared stories, and brought her warm spirit to those around her.
Margarita’s love, kindness, and zest for life will be remembered and treasured by all who knew her.
Calling hours are Wednesday, August 13th from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue and on Thursday, August 14th in St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury Street from 10:00 am until 11:00 a.m. Her funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 14th in St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m. burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, 119 Webster Street, Worcester. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church.