Eulogy by William Hagan (Joanne's Brother-In-Law) - January 12, 2009

Today is a sad day because we all have to say goodbye to a wonderful person. Joanne was a wonderful wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. But this is also a day to celebrate and honor Joanne’s life.

She was vibrant, loving, full of life, and always believed in having fun. She was also brave, determined, and had a tremendous will to live and enjoy life whatever curveballs came her way. And she always found humor in any situation however dire.

Joanne and Sal had a wonderful marriage for over 42 years. They were life partners and devoted to each other. They faced a tough challenge over the last year and a half. They both fought the best fight they knew how. But things just didn’t turn out how we all wanted.

Joanne loved to plan and enjoy get-togethers whether for just a few people or a party. She loved to cook and bake and there was no one better at it. Holidays, birthdays, and most any special occasion were always a reason for Joanne to go into party mode. And she always made sure everyone had a good time regardless of how she felt.

If Joanne was cooking you had better come hungry. Eggplant Parm, chicken cutlets, and biscottis always did me in. And I will always remember Joanne’s idea of portions. She would cut a cake based on the number of people to serve. Four people, four slices however big they were.

Joanne loved animals especially her dog Cesar and her cats and her cats and her cats. They always had a special place in her life. I think that was also indicative of her good and loving nature. Joanne was loving but tough too. She always fought hard for her family and friends and herself.

I have always told my daughter and son how very lucky I was to grow up with lots of aunts and uncles. But I always tell them how lucky they were to have Aunt Joanne and Uncle Sal.

And Joanne loved her Red Sox. I believe she willed them to win two World Series just for her.

Joanne lived a full life and got as much as she could from every day and gave as much as she could too. Hers was truly a wonderful life.