Supermodel Gisele Bundchen has shared an emotional tribute to her mother Vania Nonnenmacher after her death yesterday.
Vania Nonnenmacher passed away on Sunday in a hospital in Brazil after a cancer diagnosis. A heartbroken Gisele has shared a picture of a sunset on her Instagram Story in memory of her mother, as she wrote a Marcos Luedy quote in Portugese: "Mothers never die. They get dark, they dye their hair with clouds and turn into a sunset".
The famous catwalk model also posted to her Instagram grid, she wrote in both Portugese and English as she shared: "Beloved mom, It hurts to know that I won’t be able to hug you anymore, but I know that you will always be watching over us.
READ MORE: Gisele Bundchen's mum dies at 75 in hospital after cancer battle
"You were an angel on earth, always helping everyone around you. I am so grateful to be your daughter and to have learned from you. Thank you for being the best role model of love, strength, compassion, courage, and grace."
Tom Brady humiliated on last NFL regular season game before possible retirementShe continued: "I will forever cherish the beautiful memories we shared and will live by the values you taught me. You will live forever through the many lives that you touched. Thank you for giving me five best friends for life. Your love will always guide us. I will see you in my dreams. Love you".
The model has been flooded with support from fans sending condolences and well wishes. One commented: "So much love to your entire family. Such a difficult time. Sending you much strength at a time like this". Another shared: "Sending you abundance of love my Gisele". A third added: "Sending so much love to you and your family. May your angel guide you forever."
Vania and Gisele featured on the Vogue Brasil cover together in 2019 and the model has often spoken of her close bond with her mother. In July 2022, she shared a sweet Instagram post to wish her mum a happy birthday.
To mark Vania turning 73, Gisele wrote: "Happy birthday Mom! I am forever grateful for all that you have done and continue to do for us. Thank you for always loving, inspiring and teaching us. Thank you for giving me life! Love you so much!" Alongside the birthday tribute, Gisele shared a series of snaps including one of the pair with their eyes closed as they embraced and lovingly touched foreheads as well as another of the family, including Vania's grandkids.
Gisele was one of six daughters Vania shared with husband Valdir Bundchen. Gisele also has a twin called Patricia and other sisters; Rafaeala, Graziela, Gabriela and Raquel. Vania was a retired banker and previously worked at Banco do Brasil, while her husband Valfir was a university professor.