JoAnn (Catalano) Boes  was a force of nature, a beacon of love who illuminated the lives of those around her. Her journey through life was marked by both triumphs and tribulations. She faced storms that would have left others shattered, yet she stood strong.

Love and loss were woven into the fabric of her story from a young age. From the joy of the birth of Peter Louis, to the trauma of losing her beloved first husband Pete.  Her spirit was tested, but JoAnn's faith and strong will propelled her forward.

Fate smiled upon her once again when she met Verlin, a young man whose love became the foundation for the life they built together. The pain of losing their first child, Joseph, was immeasurable, but it did not break their spirit. Instead, they opened their hearts to adoption, welcoming Michael into their lives, a decision that would bring joy and expand her family.

JoAnn's passion for culinary arts took her across borders and earned her international recognition as a certified chef in countries like Italy, Singapore, and Greece. She completed the prestigious Cordon Bleu program in France, a testament to her dedication and skill in the kitchen.

For JoAnn, cooking wasn't just a profession - it was an expression of love. Her kitchen was a haven where she handcrafted delicious meals and welcomed friends and family with open arms. Her talents extended beyond her kitchen, as she served as alderwoman for Weatherby Lake, leaving a mark on her community. She attended club meetings and played cards regularly.

JoAnn's home was a gathering place for countless celebrations, filled with laughter, joy, and the aroma of her delectable creations. She didn't just feed friends and family; she nourished their souls with warmth and love infused in every dish.

May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously shared with us all.

Along with her parents John and Antoinette Caracci, JoAnn was preceded in death by her former husband Dr. Pete Catalano; beloved brother Anthony 'Tony' Caracci; and her sons Michael and Joseph Boes. She is survived by her husband Verlin Boes; son and daughter-in-law,  Peter L. and JoMarie Catalano; grandchildren, JoAnna Britt, Rosalee Moriarity, Antionette and Michael Marshal, Christian Boes, Giavonna Boes, Isabella Boes; her great-grandchildren, Peter, Luke, Josephine, Gabriel, Darren, John, Michael; nephew and wife, John and Sandra Caracci; and brother-in-law and wife, Donald and Sara Boes. She also had many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her and will miss her.

Services will be held on Tuesday, March 12, at St. Therese Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Rosary at 11:45 a.m. and Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

Pallbearers are her great-grandsons Peter Moriarity, Luke and Gabriel Marshall, Darren Britt II, her grandson Christian Boes, and great-nephew Anthony Caracci.

Honorary Pallbearers are JoAnna Britt, Darren Britt Sr., Michael Marshall, and John Moriarity.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com