JoAnn Fanticola

JoAnn was the youngest of four children and grew up in an Italian household rich with love and tradition. The Catholic faith was an important part of her upbringing, attending mass twice a week and volunteering at the church. She was a model student at the top of her class and was a natural leader of her peers being school president, lead cheerleader as well as an accomplished tennis player.

Although their families had known each other for years, JoAnn one day accepted a date from Anthony Fanticola at the St. Roch’s Church Bazaar in 1961. Anthony told JoAnn that he was going to marry her on their first date and even though she thought he was a bit sure of himself, she too knew he was the love of her life and they married on October 10, 1965. They danced their way through 55 beautiful years together. JoAnn had a presence with her style and grace that could be felt by all. She was loving and strong and had the ability to inspire and lift those around her. Her legion of beautiful friendships is a tribute to how many enjoyed her company. She had an impact on the community through her active charity involvement and very much enjoyed working along side all those who shared the same passions.

JoAnn was an exceptional matriarch. She was known for her cooking, including her mother’s traditional recipes and loved that it gathered the family. She valued her family above all and wrapped her children in love, guidance and heritage which created an incredible family unity. She spent time passing on her family values and holiday traditions to her children and their spouses, Marc (Kathy), Dru (Wendy), Christian (Natalie), Melissa (Scott) and to her 10 grandchildren. These values and traditions continue to nurture our family foundation.

JoAnn will be deeply missed by her family and friends but leaves a regal legacy that will carry on forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hoag Hospital Foundation in memory of JoAnn Fanticola, and will be directed to the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute at Hoag Hospital Newport Beach. Please donate online via the link below. Checks can also be mailed directly to the Foundation at 330 Placentia Avenue, Suite 100, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Please write “In Memory of JoAnn Fanticola” in the memo line.

To Live stream the funeral mass please click on the link under "Donations".