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Joni Kalinowski
Joni Kalinowski
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Joni Kalinowski Obituary
Joni Marie Kalinowski, a passionate humanitarian, devoted mother, and vibrant community member, passed away the evening of July 9, 2025, at the age of 67.
Born in North Tonawanda, New York, to Harry and June Cribbs, Joni carried the values of compassion, creativity, and resilience throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband and artistic partner, Timothy (Timmy Joe) Kalinowski, and her younger brother Robert.
Joni is survived by her two children, daughter Brandi (married to Shadow) and son Alfred, and her cherished grandson AJ, whose life partner Nicole shared four great-grandchildren with Joni: Jayden, Nova, Nyomi, and Austin. Her loving family also includes her niece Cora (married to Micah) and their four children-Adeline, Ophelia, Silas, and Isla-whom Joni embraced as her own grandchildren. She is also remembered by her two sisters, Jean Smith and Julie Dikeman, close friend and cousin Barb Nott and a circle of friends and family, pets, and communities who held her close.
A late-in-life scholar, Joni earned her Master's degree in Interdisciplinary Social Work in 2020, graduating with honors as a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Her dedication extended far beyond the classroom-Joni was a tireless volunteer and fierce advocate for the homeless, always committed to bringing dignity and warmth to those in need.
She and her husband graced local stages in both Western New York and Florida, sharing their love of storytelling and performance with the communities they adored. Offstage, Joni found joy in quilting, caring for her animals, playing games with loved ones, and simply being present with family and friends.
A memorial service will be held on August 9, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the Hickory Street Church of Christ, 710 W. Hickory Street, Arcadia, FL.
Donations in Joni's memory may be made to Springville Center for the Arts (https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?donation=sca)
or Habitat for Humanity (habitat.org" rel="sponsored">https://secure.habitat.org).
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6 Entries
Teresa Dunn
August 10, 2025
Joni was a co-worker who immediately became a cherished friend. Joni didn't simply enter a room, she arrived! Not many actually light up the room but she did, with a beauty that started in her heart and she sent out to everyone she met. She was my rock during one of my darkest times and I will always cherish the therapy we shared making my quilt. We are in a dimmer light without you my sweet friend.
Garin Hoover
August 9, 2025
I had the pleasure of knowing Joni, about 18 years ago, when she worked in my real estate brokerage. She was always warm, friendly and and fun person to be around. I also remember her late husband, Tim, with fondness. My deepest condolences to Alfred, Brandi and Shadow. May your memories bring you comfort and peace!
Jay Clayton Ambler
July 30, 2025
You were an incredibly sweet and caring lady who will be missed at Desoto Cares Homeless Services.
Brandi Kalinowski
July 28, 2025
Mom,
I miss you. I love you.
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Brandi
July 26, 2025
Mom. I miss you. I love you.
Shadow LeMere
July 26, 2025
Joni, I miss you. I love you and always cared about you and what was in your best interest. I know we could butt heads but I think that shows we cared about each other. You made me laugh with all the goofy things you would say or do! You are great material for comedy for sure!!! And as far as mother-in-law´s go, I feel very fortunate to have had you. I love that you would call me weird hours in the morning because you knew I´d be up. I love that you listened to hard rock and heavy metal; I´m super happy we all got to see System of a Down together. My parents never would have gone to such a cool concert. I love that you could laugh at yourself...and at me, with me.
Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with me and thank you for your most wonderful daughter. She brings out the best in me and I know you get that. I will always take good care of her and love her enough for you and Tim.
You will always be a part of our lives. The grandkids miss you very much, we all do. I hope you´re at peace with the love of your life, Tim. May you rest in peace.
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