JoAnn Nigro

JoAnn (Wachowiak) Nigro, 64, passed away on Monday, November 24, surrounded by her family at Avow Hospice. She was the beloved wife of Michael J. Nigro.

JoAnn was born July 22, 1961, in Milwaukee, WI, daughter of Benjamin Wachowiak of Oshkosh, WI and the late Frances (Volpe) Wachowiak. JoAnn's life was marked by a radiant spirit and a deep love for others. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose kindness and compassion touched everyone she met. Smart, beautiful, and full of grace, JoAnn lived each day with humility, humor and joy, always placing the needs of her family and friends above her own. Her faith in Christ was the foundation of her life, guiding her in love and service to others.

JoAnn was passionate about cooking and sharing her creations with family and friends. She loved to golf and lowered her handicap from a 50 to a 14. Her Green Bay Packers were second to none and her happy place was the Nigro family cabin in Eagle River, Wisconsin. Over the last couple of years, JoAnn became an expert in cookie decorating and would share with all she could.

JoAnn faced life's challenges with extraordinary courage and an unshakable spirit. Her battle with cancer was met with grace, humility, and a determination that inspired everyone around her. She showed what it means to be strong, to never give up, and to live each day with purpose and love. JoAnn was a role model of strength and perseverance, and her example will continue to guide and uplift all who were blessed to know her. She was, and will always remain, an inspiration to her family, friends, and community.

In addition to her loving husband and her father, JoAnn is survived by her children, Benjamin R. Nigro of Fairfax, VA, and Rebecca K. McDaniel and her husband, Patrick, of Richmond, VA. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary B. Kampa and Susan M. Steffanides, and her cherished granddaughter, Ava Jo McDaniel.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, January 17, at 12:00 PM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church 8200 Denver Ave. Milwaukee, WI. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until time of service at the church. A luncheon will take place after the Mass at the Wisconsin Country Club located at 6200 W. Good Hope Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53223. To send notes of sympathy and comfort to JoAnn's family please visit her tribute page at www.fullernaples.com.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in JoAnn's name to the Sisters of St. Benedict 254 Still River Rd. Harvard, MA 01451 Naples -