As a second-generation Italian-Canadian, Connie moved between the worlds of the Monteleonese and of the larger Canadian society. With her parents, she attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and participated in church activities. She was part of family and townsfolk gatherings on birthdays, holidays, and feast days. But, she also went to school with non-Italian children and so became friends with people from many backgrounds. Her English was much better than her Italian.