JoAnne W. Tiihonen

JoAnne W. Tiihonen, a spirited and resilient woman, passed away on May 23, 2025, at the age of 92. 

Born in Baldwinville, Massachusetts on April 25, 1933, JoAnne led an ambitious life that was filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to her family and community. JoAnne's witty personality and ambitious spirit were evident in her remarkable career journey. She held various positions in the banking sector, demonstrating her resilience and adaptability. Her career highlights included long tenures at Athol Savings Bank, where she retired in 2013, and at the Former Temple-Stuart Company where she served as a secretary. JoAnne also worked at First National Bank in Winchendon, Gardner Co-Operative Bank, and served as the Executive Director of the Gardner Red Cross. She also worked as an Optometric Assistant for Dr. Tiihonen. 

Outside of her professional life, JoAnne found joy in her cats, gardening, singing, and doing puzzles. She was also a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Church, where she attended services regularly. JoAnne was a beacon of love and strength for her family. 

As a widow, she leaves behind her daughters, Nancy Gallant (Joe) and Shelley Brennan as well as three grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alexander and Edna Norskey, her beloved husband, Toivo Tiihonen, and her sisters, Rachel Symons and Barbara Nygard. JoAnne's memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, 30 May 2025 from 10 - 11 am at Mack Family Funeral Homes- Gardner Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner, Massachusetts, 01440. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 11 am.   Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Gardner.

We encourage friends and family to visit JoAnne's memorial page to share memories and upload photos of our beloved JoAnne at www.mackfamilyfh.com. Your contributions will help keep her spirit alive for generations to come. 

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Gardner - Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner is directing arrangements.