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JoAnn Matonovich Obituary

JOANN M. MATONOVICH HAMMOND, IN
On Sunday, December 13, 2009 JoAnn Matonovich was called Home. JoAnn was co-owner of Jack's Carry-Out in Hammond and Jack's on the Dock in Cedar Lake with her life partner, Margot Miller. JoAnn was a proud member of the Hammond City Council and a lifelong Hammond resident. JoAnn attended St. Catherine of Siena Grade School and Morton High School, class of 1974. She was a talented athlete, a devoted daughter, sister, aunt and loyal friend. She honored her parents and adored her many nieces and nephews. JoAnn had a contagious laugh and a smile for everyone. She loved ducks, her dogs and the Cubs. JoAnn was the "Sunshine" of our lives. JoAnn is survived by her partner of 30 years, Margot Miller; her mother, Lorraine Matonovich; siblings: Ron (Pam) Matonovich, Janet M. Matonovich, John (fiancee, Lisa) Matonovich and Joyce Krukowski; nieces and nephews: Christopher, Jimmy, Susie, PJ and Joey; and five great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Joseph Matonovich. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2009 from 2:00-8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. at Bocken Funeral Home, 7042 Kennedy Ave., Hammond (Hessville), IN. Funeral services for JoAnn will be on Friday, December 18, 2009 DIRECTLY at All Saints Catholic Church, 570 Sibley, Hammond, IN. Visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. with Father Steve Kosinski celebrant. Burial will follow at St. John-St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Hammond. Memorials may be made in JoAnn's memory to the Hammond Animal Control, 5131 Columbia Ave., Hammond, IN 46327. For more information, you may call Bocken Funeral Home at (219) 844-1600 or: www.bockenfunerals.com

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Published by The Times from Dec. 16 to Dec. 17, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for JoAnn Matonovich

Not sure what to say?





Pam (Russell) Smith

November 27, 2010

I always think about Joann and Margot at Christmas and all the great times had so many years ago. How surprised I was to find out that Joann had passed away. My thoughts and prayers are extended to Margot and family. I'll always remember Joann singing Tina's 'Simply the Best'...

August 4, 2010

Hey JoJo Happy Birthday. A couple of our friends came out to Cedar Tuckey for a sunset boat ride. It was a rainy day all day long except when it was time to get on the boat for the sunset. I knew you had magical powers to make the sunset happen and not only did it happen it was magnificent. Susie and her 2 kids were there also but i am sure you already knew that. owen and Kailyn are so cute Margot let both of them drive the boat. It was very sad not having you there i think about you all the time and god do i miss you JoJo... I just want to pick up the phone and call you all the time. I talk to you constantly but you don't talk back! So how about the boat floating away from the shore station we sure got a kick out of it. Barb and Marijo to the rescue! Well JoJo cheers to you on your 54th birthday i love and miss you so much it hurts! xxoo LP

Dawn Andersen

January 19, 2010

I was at Jack's the other day to get some seafood to take home and I was stunned when I saw that JoAnn had passed away. She was a sweet, kind woman who always asked me how my Mom was doing. My heart goes out the JoAnn's family, Margot and friends. She was one in a million. God Bless!!!

Tom Kasperan

January 13, 2010

I have had the priviledge of knowing the Matonovich family for all my life, some 50 plus years. I grew up with Joann and her siblings and was sad to stumble upon her obituary. She was an amazing person, a talented athlete and a wonderful friend. My heart goes out to her family and friends. My prayers and thoughts go out to her family and to Margot.

Lynda Pariso

January 9, 2010

JoAnn attended St. Catherine of Sienna grade school (which is when I met her) and Morton Sr. High School where she excelled in athletics. JoAnn and I were inseparable in high school we shared a locker together and JoAnn (Miss Betty Crocker) cooked something special and sometimes unrecognizable every week for me and Miss Hicks our basketball coach.

Basketball was her sport. JoAnn was the point guard in high school, the play maker and leader on the court. JoAnn was able to deliver the no look pass better than anyone. She was such a deceptive player that most people never saw the ball coming. She was quoted in the paper as the “spit fire guard” who lead her team to the biggest upset in girls’ basketball when Morton beat Gavit to break their 65 game winning streak. JoAnn and I celebrated with our team at McDonalds. Boy have times changed.

JoAnn started her career path in the same place she ended it Jacks. JoAnn began working at Jack’s at the age of 15 and at 33 she was the owner. Hammond was JoAnn’s hometown and she was very proud of that.

JoAnn took to politics later in life, following in her family’s long tradition of public service. The Matonovich’s were a family that gave back to the community. JoAnn didn’t enter politics for the power. She loved to mix it up with the boys, liked the challenge of making decisions for her community but more importantly, Joann wanted nothing more than to make Hammond a better place to live. She was a natural politician for she could do the one thing that most people could not…listen.

If you go to JoAnn’s mothers’ house you cannot help but see all the pictures on the wall. There are so many smiles and laughter but the one thing you can’t help but notice is that JoAnn’s arms are always open. She relished that connection to her family.

JoAnn was the eternal optimist whose generosity extended to everyone…especially the underdog. She loved music, ducks (she even had a pet duck once), dogs too numerous to mention, family, friends, sports, a good joke, the Cubs and taking pictures. JoAnn’s laugh was genuine and contagious. Remember how she would laugh until she cried which would make everyone laugh even harder. JoAnn’s friendship never wavered even when we didn’t see each other for long periods of time. All I had to do was see JoAnn’s smile and I knew all was good with us.

The lives touched by JoAnn’s kindness are so apparent- just look around. JoJo knew everyone and she always made time to talk and listen to other people. JoAnn was such a loyal and true friend. As soon as JoAnn met someone she made you feel welcome. JoAnn and Margot loved to entertain and be surrounded by friends.






JoAnn was who she was because of her family. She was the rock, the glue that kept them together. They instilled the values of compassion, honesty and the strength that she carried with her through her life. JoAnn’s father and mother were her best friends. Her brothers Ron and Johnny and sisters Janet and Joyce she shared a special connection with. JoAnn’s nephews were the light of her life. Her niece Susie being the only girl shared a special bond with her. Great Aunt JoAnn was always there for all of her extended family.

One of JoAnn’s favorite things to do in life was to get out on her boat, put on some music, grab a cold beer and watch the sunset with those she loved. When the sun began its final decent, no one spoke much and no matter how many times we watched, we were always in awe of the colors.

JoAnn was the floor leader- always in control and just like years ago we did not see this pass coming,-- and that hurts. The beauty of the dusk is the promise of a new dawn.
JoAnn lived life to the fullest.
When the sun sets and the colors are all aglow memories of you will make us smile. We will toast your big heart and your hearty laugher. And in the darkness we will wait for a better tomorrow.

Good bye my friend
You will always be with me…
Lynda

Megan Barta

December 23, 2009

I was always blessed to have JoAnn in my life as my family, but during this past summer, I was lucky enough for her to become my friend. I spent a lot of time working for her at Jack's On The Dock, and beginning this past fall, Jack's Carry Out. There was never a day I spent with her that didn't include laughter and jokes. She was always smiling and I could not have worked for a more wonderful person. JoAnn became someone I could talk to and confide in; She taught me a lot about many things, and was always there to save my sanity when I got frustrated or exhausted.
JoAnn provided her customers and the people of Hammond with great service and did an extraordinary job. I only hope that as we continue to work at Jack's we can provide some of the great service that JoAnn did for many years.
There are many things that I can go on to share about JoAnn and her great personality, but I am sure that you have already heard them or were lucky enough to experience them yourself. I will keep my memories close to my heart so that I will always remember in my most favorite ways.
JoAnn was the best person I knew, without a doubt, and I will never stop missing her. Each day, different things remind me of her, different things bring back the memories we had made together. This will go on forever, but I know that I will never forget her. She will always be with me, and I will carry her in my heart.

I love you, JoAnn!
Love,
Megan

Susie Lubotina

December 23, 2009

My Dear Aunt JoAnn-

You were such a joy to be around! I always looked forward to talking to you and seeing you- you would always cheer me up- and anyone else with your smile. We have had some really fun times at the cottages in Michigan and in Cedar Lake. You and Margot always welcomed us over anytime- and we were so grateful for that. And for all the times we came over to play in th water and the many boat rides. You were so great to Doug- he felt that you were HIS aunt- you would call him on his birthday- which he just loved. He always looked forward to drinking wine with you and just chatting. You were Kailynn's favorite Aunt- (just like you were ALWAYS mine!) You could always make her smile and laugh. She loved you tickeling her and just being silly together.She loved you like no other. Owen loved you just as much! He looks at all your pictures and says Do-Do( Jo-Jo) you were the best Godmother to him. I will miss (and already do miss) how you always made time for everyone. Even though you had so much on your plate you'd always make time to meet up with us. I'm so grateful to have known you, and to have you for my Aunt. I still do not understand why God had to take you so suddenly. I don't think I'll ever be able to accept that your gone. I just hope you knew how much I loved you and how thankful I am for all that you've done for me and my family. I love you and always will. Your loving niece- Susie

Walker Litherland

December 20, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Matonovich Family and to Margot at this time of loss. So many great memories of JoAnn, she will be missed.... Walker

margot miller

December 20, 2009

A MESSAGE FROM MARGOT

I was introduced to JoAnn when she was working at the A&P in 1979. The first time we talked, I knew she was special, like no other. She loved that job because not only was it a constant flow of neighbors and friends through her check out line, it gave her the financial freedom to afford things for herself and her family at a young age. She never wanted her family to be without. She always had a smile on her face when she told the story of giving her “little” 6’3” brother Johnny her car and some money so he could go on a date when in high school. And John, even though you fought like brothers and sisters, she knew you were vital to her political career; she respected your opinion and loved you unconditionally.

JoAnn loved sitting in front of the fireplace with a good glass of wine, watching soap operas, and always looked forward to the new fall TV shows. She loved going out to dinner and to the movies. She was a romantic who could spend hours in a Hallmark Store, assuring herself, she would never miss the celebration of a special occasion. She adored Bill Clinton & was proud the Democrats were back in the White House…even if it wasn’t Hillary. She loved taking pictures and was so grateful for a good haircut. She loved a freshly fallen snow and riding her snowmobile through its beauty and tranquility. Our close knit family of intimate friends was the envy of all outside our circle…the lifelong relationships we developed as we all grew up together. She flourished in the strength & commoridity of her friendships. She would turn her daily grocery store visits into a social event. She was so proud when we bought Jacks in Hammond because it was in the community where she grew up, plus, it was across the alley from her family’s home. I always thought our customers didn’t really like our food so much; they came into Jacks to see JoAnn’s smiling face with those gorgeous white teeth and talk about their families and their history together. I always told her that she knew every person in Hammond. If she ever saw someone whose name she had forgotten, she would run to her yearbooks so she would know it the next time she saw them.

JoAnn loved gardening and our house was always filled with plant life. She loved to cook and to share her meals with family and friends. In secret, she was an entertainer who loved to imitate famous people….and if anyone ever saw her mimic Tina Turner using a feather duster for hair…you know she was good.

Our doors were always open to family and friends. Joann did not have a selfish bone in her body, the more the merrier. She loved floating in our pool after a 100 degree night, working at Jacks. She would laugh out loud because she swore she couldn’t swim, but she was one of the best dog paddlers I ever saw. She loved fireworks over the lake and in her younger days, could put on a good display of her own for friends and family. Thank God her knees got so bad she realized she could no longer outrun the danger. She loved the moon reflecting on the lake and the stars that lit up the sky at night. She always knew that her father was the brightest star, watching over her. She loved the wind in her “blond’ not grey- hair and music playing loudly in her ears. Her newly acquired motorcycle and her old dependable topless jeep gave her peace and freedom. She loved her ‘work husbands’, Mark and Dan. She treasured the days, working side-by-side, sharing the same goals & convictions but struggled with those whose priorities weren’t always the best for the community she loved so dearly.

The greatest gift I ever gave JoAnn was a video camera. It probably weighed 50# (it was in the early 80’s), but she took it to every celebration, never taking it off of her shoulder, never wanting to miss a cherished memory.

She often talked of her older brother, Ron, in the Navy while growing up, and distanced by the miles but her admiration & respect for you, Ron, and later Pam, never faltered. She felt so very close to you...and couldn’t wait for your birthday so she could poke fun at you with a funny “old fart” Hallmark card.

Although I did not know Joann when her oldest nephew, Christopher, was born, I certainly felt as if I was there. There is no doubt that every student at Morton High School knew she was a proud Aunt. Christopher, when you married Debi on JoAnn’s 40th birthday, the connection to you was deepened beyond words. You were her 1st Godson. She cherished the opportunity we had to share a piece of your life working at Jack’s and at 16 years old, endearingly becoming, “Mr. Fish.”

Next born was Jimmy. JoAnn always felt compassion for him as she shared the “middle” child syndrome with him. Not the oldest, not the youngest, not the first boy nor the first girl…just the middle child. I hope you know Jimmy that you are as unique and special as she was.

And then came Susie. The first Matonovich girl—Good God, the celebration was on. Susie, you always held a special place in JoAnn’s heart. She adored you.

Every birth of a new niece or nephew was the best day of JoAnn’s life…and she had a lot of best days. She relished the closeness she felt with you, Joyce, when you asked her to be the birth coach and share in the delivery of PJ. She couldn’t wait until the next doctor’s appointment. Then, when asked again with Joey, she was so humbled. Joyce, that experience was one of the happiest moments in her life.

Janet, you were her older sister and mentor. She always cherished your relationship. When you both took the huge step of moving into an apartment together, JoAnn felt a new found closeness…the first step of growing up, away from mom and dad. That experience was so special to her Janet, and so were you.

And finally, Loraine, surely you know how much JoAnn loved you. The dedication she had to you was unrivaled. My words could never express the love she held in her heart for you. No sacrifice was too great to ensure your happiness and well being. She was so proud that she was the results of your good looks and Joker’s big heart. December was always JoAnn’s favorite month of the year as we celebrated your birthday and Christmas.

And to the many cousins, aunts, uncles, great nieces and nephews, she loved you all…family was first.

JoAnn was committed to our relationship for 30 years. No matter what obstacles we encountered, we always knew in our hearts that, together, we would work through it. JoAnn, you were the sunshine in my life and now, you’ll always be my brightest star in the sky.

December 19, 2009

I will miss calling Jack's and having JoAnn always recognizing my voice. She never missed. She also asked when I was going to Florida or how long I had been back. Just personal touches you don't find in too many businesses these days. We also discussed politics when there was time. And that smile! Her mother must be grieving but she should be so proud of the daughter she raised. May God Bless.

Phyllis(PL) Larson

December 19, 2009

My deepest sympathies to Margot and the Matonovich family. I still see JoAnn coming down the stairs lip sinking to Tina Turner' What's Love Got To Do With It. May everyone find comfort in all your special memories.

December 18, 2009

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Margot and the entire Matonovich family. Joann was such a wonderful person with the best personality and a contagious smile. She will be greatly missed.
Sincerely,
The Mckern family

Rita Jackson

December 18, 2009

Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. She was my counsel person and she will be missed.

Mary Cartwright

December 18, 2009

To Lorraine, Margot and the entire Matonovich Family,

Heartfelt condolences on your loss. I have so very many fond memories of JoAnn and the family May God comfort you and give you peace. She will truly be missed! My prayers are with you all.

Richard McGehee

December 18, 2009

To Margot and the entire Matonovich family, we pray for you in your time of need. I know Jo would not want you to greive, just go on living because she is with you always.

To JoAnn I will always remember playing sandlot baseball Marshall St vs. Cleveland St., going to the A & P
and always going to your checkout line because you were so pretty and nice.
Then later seeing you again at Jacks was so nice. You changed my prospective on politicians, really made a difference.
I wiil never forget you Jo

Love,
Rick McGehee and family

December 18, 2009

Today we say a final good bye to our friend. Your loving heart and giving spirit will live on in our hearts forever. Rest in Peace JoAnn.

Linda and Gretch

Tom Sabo and Family

December 18, 2009

Dear Margot, Ron, John, Janet, Joyce, and especially Lorraine,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember Joann as a little girl peeking out at all of the big kids from behind the furnace in your basement and then suddenly jumping out with a huge belly laugh to surprise us all.
May she remain with you all in each and every or your moments of laughter and happiness.

Cheryl Ludewig-Jeffery

December 17, 2009

My heart goes out to Margot and the entire Matonovich family. I am so sorry to hear of such a great loss. I hope and pray you find comfort and peace in these most difficult days ahead. I pray you all find strength and remember the good times and know you will forever have an "angel" watching out for you. Peace and love be with all of you....

Cathy Sokley

December 17, 2009

Please accept our deepest sympathies as we have fond memories of the Matonovich family when we lived in Hessville.

Jane Kostoff, George Kostoff, Mary Kostoff-Stoneman and Cathy Kostoff-Sokley

Don Thomas

December 17, 2009

My deepest condolences to the Matonovich family.
I have fond memories of JoAnn, her infectious smile and laugh, her "Farah" style hair, wearing bib overalls and crawling under her Challenger to change the oil. Going to "America" concerts and riding on the back of my motorcycle.
As long as we have memories, she will be with us.....

Bill Emerson Sr.

December 17, 2009

May Joann rest in peace .She was always there to help us if we needed it. We rode the buses to Indianapolis to protest the property taxes and we served together on the not for profit gaming committee. I have not known her as long as some of you but I have learned from her example. She will be missed. Peace to all her family and friends.

Bill Emerson & Family

Nancy Ruberry-Rogan

December 17, 2009

Dear Margot and the Matonovich Family:

I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Joann the day of the grand opening of "Jacks on the Dock". Julie and Meg took my husband and I on their boat for some sun and fun and our last stop on the lake was "Jacks on the Dock" to help celebrate the exciting grand opening. We were the first customer's to place orders. I can remember Joann clearly on this day. She was so warm, friendly and I could tell the moment I met her that she had a big heart My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Betty Bridges

December 17, 2009

I have know Joanna for many years, she had a beautiful smile and very loving person, she will be dearly missed. My heart goes out to the Matonovich family. May God Bless you thru this sorrow.
Love
Betty Bridges and Dennis kras

Shawn Turpin

December 17, 2009

My prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time. RIP JoAnn.

Anita Rembert

December 17, 2009

To Margot,and Matonovich Family,an amazing Woman and such an inspiration to many.I will hold her in my memories and heart.

Glenda & Rick Beller

December 17, 2009

May the memories help you through this time of sorrow. There are many prayers for Margo and the Matonovich family. JoAnn will be missed but the memories are always in your heart.

Veronica Medina

December 17, 2009

There is only one word to describe JoAnn’s life, radiant. Her love for her family and city gave her that wonderful glow. Rest in Peace, JoAnn.

Ashley Bell

December 17, 2009

To family of Joann Matonovich,
I am sincerely sorry for the loss of your love one. My family and I have been a proud customer of Jack's & now Jack's on the Dock for many years. Seeing Joann was always a pleasure, I can't remember a time when she wasn't smiling and so enjoyable.
From our family to yours... our deepest sympathy

Tammy Topor

December 17, 2009

Margot and Matonovich Family, Joann was always there with a smile or a wave or a quick hello any time I seen her....she will be dearly missed... my prayers are with you in this time of grief..

Pam Gallagher

December 17, 2009

My deepest sympathy to Margo and the Matonovich family. Jo Ann truly was a special woman. She was the ambassador of the underdog and was just one of the nicest people you could know.
Jo Ann really knew how to pay it forward. You could always count on a warm greeting and a radiant smile. She will be sorely missed.

Alfonso Salinas III

December 17, 2009

Joann was a strong leader that will be missed by all. My deepest sympathies go out to her family. She will be kept in our thoughts and prayers.

December 17, 2009

TO THE FAMILY AND MARGOT, WE EXPRESS OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY . JOANN SUPPORTED OUR BUSINESS AT THE TIME
WITH WONDERFUL DONATIONS TO THE KENNEDY THEATRE AND ALSO TO OUR SCHOOL ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA. SHE WAS A VERY CARING PERSON. WE WILL MISS HER BRIGHT SMILE. SHE WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR PRAYERS. CHRIS AND NIKKI COMPANIOTT.

Monique Stevenson & Family

December 16, 2009

I'm sorry to hear about Joann, She will be deeply missed. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Cathy Hauer

December 16, 2009

JoAnn was a special person who always had a kind smile and a sharp wit. She always made everyone who came to her shop feel special and welcome. She will be truly missed.

Donna Milton Slupczynski

December 16, 2009

Please accept my sincere condolences. I remember her always smiling.

December 16, 2009

There are no words that can exemplarize the shock that the Calumet region is feeling right now. The area has lost a vibrant soul who cared about her community and all the citizens in it. While I, for one, try to get past the total sadness of Joann's passing, I will recall the younger days and special memories of 11" softball tournies, (with Papa Joe along), backyard grills, Little Kings and dancing to Tina Turner. To Margot, Lorraine, Ron, Janet, John and Joyce, our deepest sympathies. May she rest in peace. Rita & Peg

Bob & Marsha Walerowicz-McCreery

December 16, 2009

Deeply saddened & still in shock upon learning of JoAnn's sudden passing. Her beautiful smile and effervescent personality could warm anyone's heart and lift their spirits. A woman of class, kindness & integrity of the human soul. Now her "light" will shine brightly forever in heaven. We will miss her.
Our heartfelt sympathy to Margot & the Matonovich family -

December 16, 2009

To Margo and the Matonovich Family,
In time you will find a way to let her go and move on to her new life in the City of Heaven. It's painful now, but as you release this angel back to her Father in Heaven, your memories will keep her eternal flame alive.
...then, one day you will feel her Heavenly joy and love, and know that "all is well" and in divine order.
God bless ALL of you from the heart.
Love,
Nancy and Robert Downey

December 16, 2009

Our condolences to JoAnn's family. We appreciated her many years of support to the Hammond Optimist Youth Sports program. She will be missed by all of us.

Sara Lopez

December 16, 2009

Lorraine, Margot: I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you!!! Joanne was always so wonderful to me and I am blessed to have known her. Always, Sara Lopez ( Phaze 1)

December 16, 2009

Dear Margo,Joyce and the Matonovich family,

I would like to express my sympathy to all of you, in the loss of Joann.
I am sending this from Arizona,after hearing the news.
I have nothing but fond memories, from playing softball, and her contageous laughter. She has a beautiful smile in her picture, that I always remember.
May you all find comfort from family and friends in this difficult time, and may this bring peace to your hearts.

Sincerely,
Lisa Graves Gandolfi

Mike Vanes

December 16, 2009

Joann, you will be deeply missed. Everytime I ran into you, you always had that smile that brought sunshine into the room no matter what was going on in the day! My prayers to the Matonovich family. Mike Vanes

Ronni (Vela) Meyer

December 16, 2009

Dear Margot, Lorraine and Family,
I am so sorry to learn of JoAnn's passing. This is a tremendous loss for each and every one of you. JoAnn was a beautiful, kind and wonderful human being. You are in my thoughts and prayers, may God bless you all.

NICK SAMARDZIJA

December 16, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Debbie Jett

December 16, 2009

I'm so sorry to hear about Joanne, my condolences go out to Margot and the Matonovich family. Life is just to short, you never know what tomorrow may bring. May she rest in peace.

Mary Jo Magurany

December 16, 2009

My heart goes out to you and your family on this great loss of a wonderful daughter, friend, and human being. I am so thankful to have run into Joann when I was home in August. I'll cherish that last hug forever.

jim and nancy ostrom

December 16, 2009

chris , debbie and family. we are so sorry to hear of your aunts passing. we send our love to you all. uncle jim and aunt nancy and our family.

Christina Kalina

December 16, 2009

MARGO AND THE MATONOVICH FAMILY,
I'M SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JOANN PASSING AWAY. SHE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON WITH A GREAT SMILE AND LAUGH. SHE ALWAYS MADE YOU FEEL WELCOME AT JACK'S AND JACK'S ON THE DOCK. MAY IT COMFORT ALL OF YOU KNOWING THAT SHE IS RESTING IN PEACE AND WATCHING OVER YOU.
CHRIS KALINA AND THE TWO LADIES FROM VEGAS. (ANN AND HONEY)

Domingo Camarillo

December 16, 2009

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

December 16, 2009

To Margo and all of the Matonovich family my prayers are with you.
May God Bless, Stan(stosh)Miller (CC,IL)

December 16, 2009

We have very fond memories of watching Joann play basketball and lead her Morton High School team in many exciting games. Joann's infectious laugh and smiling face always greeted us at Jack's and she made sure we got special treatment with extra tartar sauce to go. We were always proud to display her campaign sign in our front yard. Our deepest sympathy to the Matonovich family.
God Bless You, Mr and Mrs. James Fowler.

Lois/Marilyn Nawrocki/Dietrich

December 16, 2009

From Florida; Dear Margo and the Matonovich family. Please except our deepest sympathy. We can't even imagine your feelings right now. Joann was so young. Don't know if the world will ever be the same without her wonderful smile. Know you are in our prayers and thoughts.

ANTHONY HIGGS

December 16, 2009

MAY GOD BLESS THE MATONOVICH FAMILY IN THIS DARK HOUR AND MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.

Corrie Martin

December 16, 2009

Over the past year I have had the privilege of working with JoAnn. She not only became a very good friend to me, but she became my family. She cared about everyone that she knew, and tried to take care of everyone. No day will be the same without her, and I will not either. My heart and prayers go out to Margot and the Matonovich family. JoAnn was the most amazing person I have ever met. She will be greatly missed by all, and will never be forgotten.

Ron & Sharon Urbanski

December 16, 2009

Our hearts go out to the Matonovich family, may God bless you all.

December 16, 2009

From Texas, Margo and the Matonovich family please except our deepest sympathy. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers. Roy, Errett and Marian Montgomery Leck

Kathy Komorowski

December 16, 2009

Our prayers are with Margo and Joann's many friends and family. Sandy and I want to express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Joann was taken way too soon.

ISABEL & JOE ESCOBEDO

December 16, 2009

TO THE FAMILY OF JOANN,
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOVE ONE.I JUST RECENTLY MET HER AND SHE WAS THE NICEST PERSON WHO MADE ME FEEL LIKE SHE KNEW ME FOR A LONG TIME.SHE IS NOW THE GUARDIAN ANGEL WHO WILL WATCH OVER HER LOVE ONES.MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU IN THIS TIME OF NEED.

Deb Steller

December 16, 2009

Laku noc, my Croatian friend. Keep an eye on us all from above. You will be sorely missed by many. My thoughts and prayers to Margot, Mrs. Matonovich and family.

Juan J. Moreno

December 16, 2009

Matonovich Family,
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

December 16, 2009

Working w/ JoAnn at the Hessville A&P, it was apparent from an early age that she was someone special. Always, always that radiant smile. Our heartfelt condolences to all.

Mary Gerovac

December 16, 2009

For Margot and the Matonovich family,
I am so sorry to hear of your profound loss. JoAnn was quite a special person who touched many people's lives. Her spirit will live on in all of our hearts. You will be greatly missed, my friend.
My sincere and heartfelt sympathy,

Cathy Budkis

December 16, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of grief.

judy yonan

December 16, 2009

To the Matonovich Family and my dearest friend like Sister friend Jan God took her in his loving arms and carried her home when my children had no Christmas presents Jan told Joann and she called me and said dont worry Judy I will see to it that they have presents and that she did my children and I will always love Joann for making their Christmas. Lorraine their Mother I had the pleasure of meeting a nother fine women God be with you Loraine in your loss of your daughter love Judy and her family.

Jan

December 16, 2009

My dear sweet loving sister. You were not only my sister, but my friend that was always there for me. Everyone that knew you loved you and you loved them back. A constant giver. Always smiling and even at your death, a smile was on your face. You were truly an angel on this earth and now you are one in heaven. You are now with dad and happy. Angel will so much miss her second mom, you were so good to her and she loved you. I miss and will never stop missing you. We love you.Now rest my sweet sister.

Joyce Krukowski

December 16, 2009

JoAnn,

Thanks for being the special sister and aunt that you were and taking care of dad and then mom when the need arose; you were the BEST! I wish I could understand why you had to leave us so soon; we surely were not ready for this and not even being able to say goodbye. I am glad I was able to spend time with you last Friday and go to the show with you and Jan recently. I will cherish all the memories of you and now you are my angel that all of us need.

I love you Jo and always will,

your sister, Joyce

Dushan Galic

December 16, 2009

My deepest sympathies and heartflet prayers go out to Ron, John and the entire family of our beloved Joann. May her perpetual smile help you find solace in your time of sorrow.
May God rest her soul.

Peter & Joey Krukowski

December 16, 2009

RIP, Aunt Jojo, If only we had five minutes the day you passed away, we would have had time to tell you all the things we needed to say. We never got to tell you how much you mean to us or that you were the best aunt, better than any woman could be. The last time that we talked to you we wish we would have known. We would have said we love you and kept you on the phone. If we only had five minutes, the morning you passed away, we'd give you one last hug so tight and see your great big smile. We'd tell you that we don't think we could live without you, not even for awhile. We'd kiss your cheek and take your hand and tell you it's okay to go and tell you that we'll miss you more than you'll ever know. But you were gone so quickly, one last breath you'd take. Before you even knew it, you were standing at Heaven's gate. Now, God has called upon you, it's time to get your wings to leave this life behind you and enjoy all of Heaven's beautiful things. So wait for us in Heaven, Jojo, don't let us come alone. The day the angels come for us, please be there to bring us home.

We love you, Jojo,
your nephews,
P.J. and Joey

Glenn Brennan

December 16, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

December 16, 2009

From Texas please accept our deepest sympathies. Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Love you Margot...Kenny, Joyce, Colton and Kelsey McKey.

Doug Wynkoop

December 16, 2009

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Lisa Lopiccolo

December 16, 2009

Joann always made you feel welcome anywhere you saw her. Her contagious smile and laugh was something you could always count on. We have lost a dear friend but her memory will always live on in our hearts

Judge Julie Cantrell

December 16, 2009

To The Matonovich Family:

I am so sorry for your loss. I was deeply saddened by JoAnn's passing. Hammond will suffer along with you. She was a gracious person who always had the best interest of her beloved city at heart. All who knew her had their lives enriched being graced by her outgoing personality. May your happy memories comfort you in your time of sorrow. May she rest in peace.

Pat Barker

December 16, 2009

I was so sorry to hear of JoAnn's passing. I remember her as a little girl playing on Marshall Ave. I lived for almost 20 years across the street on Marshall Ave and have many fond memories of all the family. A Friend, Pat Barker

Olivia & Scott Mitchell

December 16, 2009

Olivia and I send our love to the family and her lifelong partner. She was a person who was genuine and worked hard for her constituents’. I enjoyed our conversations at Jacks on the dock. Now God will be able to enjoy them, and maybe a shrimp or two.

Michael & Yvonne Skertich

December 16, 2009

Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. We know that mere words cannot provide much comfort to all of you now, but we just wanted you to know how much we care.

May your hearts and minds be full of warm memories to comfort you in the coming days.

Our deepest sympathies,

Lisa Misch

December 16, 2009

I have few words to express the sorrow I have for Margo, JoAnn's family and friends. Peace be with you my friend. I have alot of great memories of the Cal City days, playing basketball and other memorable experiences. Rest in Peace.

edwardo banda

December 16, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

December 16, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. Joann was always so involved with the youth and the community. She will truly be missed.

Carol McCormack

Don Hipp Sr

December 16, 2009

So sorry to get this sad news. I never had a conversation with Joann that I didn't enjoy. I always new her heart was with the people. She knew how to "Be", a rarity these days.
Don Hipp

Luisa Peterson

December 15, 2009

To the Matonovich family,
My deepest condolences to all of you. I've known JoAnn since she was 12 years old. I don't ever remember her not smiling and being happy and positive. She was a great person and will be missed so much. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

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