Obituary of Joanne DiLabio

It is with broken hearts and immense love that the DiLabio family announces the sudden passing of a beloved Wife, Mom, and Nonna who courageously battled cancer with remarkable strength, grace, and determination. Surrounded by her family, Joanne passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in her 65^th year.

Joanne is survived by the love of life, her soulmate Amedeo (Cha-Cha). They were married for 45 beautiful years and together they created a loving and nurturing home whose door was always open. Joanne was a devoted Mom to her five children who she loved unconditionally: Quintino (Sheri), Amedeo (Sara), Nicole, Carla, and Joanna (John). She was a cherished Nonna to her special little peanuts who gave her the greatest joy: Marija (Isaac), Finn, Delilah, Quintino Jr., Lorenzo, and Amelia. Joanne was overjoyed knowing she was becoming a Great-Nonna at the end of the month. Vinny, her lap cat, will miss her greatly, especially the nightly snuggles on the couch.

Joanne was born in Italy to the late Ida and the late Pasquale Porco. She was the daughter-in-law of the late Nicoletta and the late Quinto DiLabio. Sister-in-law of John (Suzanne), Joe (Abby), and the late Emma (late Ken). Joanne was a cherished aunt, great-aunt, cousin, friend, and “Mom” to many.

Joanne leaves behind a legacy of resilience and unwavering devotion to her family. Though cancer challenged her body, it never diminished her spirit or the boundless love she had for her family, who will forever hold her in their hearts.

When you left the DiLabio house, your stomach was never empty, and your cheeks hurt from laughter. Joanne was an exceptional host who treated everyone like family. With her husband as sous chef, together they would feed an army with their homemade salami, sausage, sauce, roasted red peppers, antipasto, and so much more. Joanne showed her love through food, which was always in abundance. The traditions she and Amedeo (Cha-Cha) created with their family, like matching outfits and a seafood feast on Christmas Eve, will continue to live on in their children and grandchildren who meant everything to them.

To really know Joanne was something pretty special. She had a mischievous nature with pranks, grins, jokes, and profanities. She loved being cozy at home and watching TV shows and movies every night alongside her family. Vacations, holidays, and events were always special times where Joanne made sure family moments were celebrated. Putting her peanuts Delilah and Quintino Jr. on the school bus every day and waiting for them after school brought her immeasurable happiness. Over the years, you could always find Joanne in the stands cheering on her children and grandchildren in whatever sports and activities they were part of. Her world revolved around them as she was always their biggest supporter.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Cancer Clinic at the Sault Area Hospital, especially Dr. Spadafora and her team for their care and compassion during Joanne’s journey.

Family and friends are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Memorial Service to be celebrated in the Chapel on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Helen Smith officiating.

Memorial donations to Tracy’s Dream would be greatly appreciated by the family. The charity provides parking passes to cancer patients for their treatments and appointments.

Joanne was a true matriarch and the rock of the DiLabio family. Her selflessness, fortitude, and commitment to family was unwavering. Her loss is profound and it leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. The precious memories she shared with her family will forever be treasured and Joanne’s spirit will be kept alive in the lives of all she touched.

The hotel is always open at Nonna & Nonno’s house. As Joanne would always say to her grandkids: “I love you, to infinity and beyond…”