Joan Alfini peacefully passed away at home in Elmhurst, Illinois surrounded by her family and incredible caregivers.
She was a dedicated wife, mother, and nurse, living her values of putting family and friends first. She loved working as a nurse, especially caring for the elderly at Oak Ridge Convalescent Home where she was Director of Nursing. She enjoyed being active in bowling, tennis, and golf leagues.
Joan’s passion was cards. Whether participating in a heated bridge club tournament, as a playing partner with Ralph, or teaching her grandchildren cribbage, she knew that some of the simple rules of cards were helpful in teaching life lessons. Joan met many wonderful friends through her bridge club associations.
Always a gracious host and wonderful cook, Joan’s dinners, holiday parties, and football watch events were legendary. Her home was a place where family and friends (especially the four-legged variety) were always welcome.
Her smile, laughter and fun loving spirit will be forever missed but never forgotten.
Joan C. Alfini, nee McMahon, age 89, longtime resident of Elmhurst; beloved wife of the late Ralph M.; loving mother of Joseph (Gale), Patricia (Jimmy Psyhogios) Wangler, John (Myrna), Peter (Stephanie) and Susan (Glen) Haeflinger; proud grandmother of 14 and great-grandmother of 4; dear sister of Maureen (the late Tom) Unger, Thomas (Lois) and Dr. Michael (Michelle) McMahon and the late Betty (the late Larry) Anundson, Joseph (the late Eileen) and Patrick (Patty) McMahon and sister in law of Mary (Augie) Mader and Ann (Donald) Maag. Visitation Friday, February 23, 2024, 9:15 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Rd., (at Madison), Elmhurst. Interment Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Arrangements handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst. 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
Glen Haeflinger
We all get one shot at life and Joanie made the most of it!! Our entire family benefited from her kind heart, great sense of humor, no non-sense approach, and fun loving nature. I can only hope others have the opportunity to have people like Joan in their lives to help bring out their very best. She will be missed dearly, but fondly remembered forever.
Bob & Kathy Yaksich
Joanie was a great lady who will be remembered for her warm smile, happy laugh, and a way of making you feel comfortable the first time meeting her. We were so lucky to have met Ralph and Joanie and will treasure all the fun we had together. If not for Joanie and Ralph there would never have been the amazing Alfini family. Thanks for all the memories !!!!!!!
With Love, Bob & Kathy
Rea
I am overwhelmed with gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing Joan. She was a beacon of warmth, kindness, and wisdom. Her passing leaves a void that words cannot describe. Joan’s love for her family was evident in how her children treated each other with so much love.
Our mutual love for dogs has always brought us closer. We used to share stories about our furry companions and have a good laugh. Joan loves solving puzzles and playing card games. One of my most cherished memories with Joan was the time we spent playing cards. She taught me how to play cribbage. It was an honor to be in her company, listening to her reminisce about her travels and memories. As I reflect on our short time together, I am grateful for our bond. Joan made me feel welcome.
Joan, you will always have a special place in my heart. You will be greatly missed. I love you.
Don & Pami Murray and Family
Mrs. Alfini was always a wonderful person to be around. Her smiles and laughter brighten the room. Her and Ralph always played bridge with my mom and dad. If it was at our house, I was babysitting at theirs. Joan and Ralph were a big influence on my life as well as those of my family. she will be remembered with warm hearts and a friendly smile. God Bless you Mrs. Alfini and your beautiful family !
Pfeilsticker Family
Mrs. Joan caring heart, wisdom, laugh, her special way, leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.
Our sincere condolences.