Joan Roberto

Joan Carolyn Roberto , 78, of Wakefield, passed away Friday, Jan. 16 following a courageous struggle with cancer.

Born in Melrose, May 3, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Arnold and Lillian (Orsini) Salvati.

Joan lived in Wakefield her entire life forging many friendships, graduating from Wakefield High School Class of 1948 where she was a cheerleader and member of the Inter Nos. She worked for several years at Purdy Photography in Boston before marrying and going on to raise her family. A parishioner at St. Florence Parish, she taught CCD and was a member of Sodality. She was president of the Woodville School PTA and instrumental in establishing the school library. She was a member of the Sons of Italy Lodge 1734 where she served as Chaplain and Chair of Public Relations.

As a patient of Lahey Hospital and Ledgewood Rehabilitation Center, she developed relationships with so many of the staff that wanted to adopt her as their own Nonnie. Through the skillful and caring hands of these people and her family, she was surrounded by those that loved her.

Known for her devotion to family and friends she selflessly cared for them. She lavished attention on all, including her home and garden that she decorated and maintained to perfection. Building a home for her children and husband was the center of Joan's world. Joan will always be remembered for her unfailing ability to open her heart to all who sought comfort, kindness and understanding. The strength and wisdom she has shown us, we will forever carry in our minds and in our hearts.

Mrs. Roberto was the loving wife of 58 years of John J. Roberto , Jr. She is survived by their beloved children John "Jack" Roberto and his wife Carey of Wakefield, Alfred "Fred" Roberto and his wife Laurie Roberto of Lynnfield, Janice Confalone and her husband Peter of Lynnfield and Mark Roberto and his wife Dayna of Wakefield. Mrs. Roberto was the devoted Nonnie to eleven grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews and friends both far and near. Sister of the late Arnold Salvati, she leaves Daniel Salvati and Jane Salvati of Wakefield. Joan was predeceased by her grandson Peter S. Confalone, Jr..

Her funeral will be held from the McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave. Wakefield on Wednesday at 9 AM followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Florence Church, 37 Butler Ave. at 10 o'clock. Relatives and friends may call at the Funeral home on Tuesday from 3 – 8 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the John and Joan Roberto , Jr. Family Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 321, Wakefield, MA. 01880

Read Joan Roberto's Obituary and Guestbook on www.mcdonaldfs.com.

Visitation

McDonald Funeral Home
19 Yale Ave.
Wakefield , MA US 01880
Tuesday, January 20, 2009, 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Service

St. Florence Church
47 Butler Ave.
Wakefield , MA US 01880
Wednesday, January 21, 2009, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Cemetery

Forest Glade Cemetery
Lowell Street
Wakefield , MA US 01880
Wednesday, January 21, 2009, 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM