1962 - 2016
Visitation
June 5, 20163:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Dolan Funeral Home
Funeral
June 6, 20169:00 A.M
St. John the Evangelist Church, Chelmsford, MA
Joanne Maria Zaher, 54, of Tyngsboro, MA died Tuesday May 31, 2016 surrounded by her loving family and friends at the Rose Monahan Hospice Home in Worcester after a long battle with cancer.
She was married to M. William Zaher with whom he would have celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary on October 27st.
Born in Stoughton, MA on March 21, 1962, she was the daughter of Joseph Mario Macrina of Easton and the late Mary Macrina. She was raised in Easton, MA and was a proud member of Oliver Ames High School Class of 1980. She earned her Bachelor degree in Business from Westfield State College in 1984.
Joanne worked as a Rehab. Equipment Specialist at PKP Rehab of Canton for several years. She previously had worked for Muscular Dystrophy Assn in Taunton and Hutchinson Medical. Most recently Joanne worked and volunteered in the Tyngsboro Elementary School doing many different jobs.
Joanne was an avid Red Sox Fan. She was currently President of the Tyngsboro Elementary School PTO. She also spent time on the Board of Directors of the Tyngsboro Young Soccer Assn. She loved spending time with family and friends at Sugar Bush and Lake Winnipesaukee. She enjoyed bowling, boating and collecting Angels. Joanne loved walking the beach at Old Orchard Beach and collecting shells.
A devout catholic, she was a member of Holy Cross Church in Easton.
Besides her father, she is survived by Joanne’s Husband, M. William Zaher of Tyngsboro; two sons Christopher M. Zaher and Nathan J. Zaher; two daughters, Bethany L.Rivera and Sarah S. Zaher all of Tyngsboro; two brothers, Joseph M. Macrina Jr and his wife Tammy of Easton and James M. Macrina of Easton; her loving dog, Beamer, many cousins and one niece.
Visiting hours Sun. 3 to 7 p.m. at the DOLAN FUNERAL HOME 106 MIDDLESEX ST. CHELMSFORD, MA. Funeral Monday at 8:00 am from the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:00 am in St. John the Evangelist Church in Chelmsford, MA. Burial in Tyngsboro Memorial Cemetery, Tyngsboro. For those who wish contributions in her memory may be made to the Tyngsboro PTO C/o Joan Methot 171 Scribner Road, Tyngsboro, MA 01879. ARRANGEMENTS BY DOLAN FUNERAL HOME 978-251-4041. Guestbook at www.dolanfuneralhome.com
Joanne Blanchette
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Joanne was such a lovely person. She will be missed dearly by many. You are all in our thoughts and prayers in the coming days.
John Small
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There should be more people in the world like Joanne ,our paths crossed when we worked at PKP rehab helping others.
I’ll never forget how passionate she was in getting people what they really needed to stay mobile.
My deepest sympathies are with husband , family and friends at this time .
Conte Memorial Club
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Dear Joe and family we share in your sorrow. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
MaryEllen Bodio
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With deepest sympathy. My memories of Joanne was always that she was a very kind person.
May she rest in peace. So sorry for your loss.
Timothy J. Grandy
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As a fellow classmate of graduating class of Oliver Ames High School 1980.
My prayers are with her entire family and all her dear friends.
Although it was so long ago I can still remember her beautiful smile, and her fantastic personality.
I was blessed to even have known her.
God bless and save a place in heaven for us.
R.I.P.
Fran Diodati
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Joanne was not only involved in Tyngsborough PTO, but she was an awesome room Mom in my second grade class where Nathan was my student. Personally, she was a great support to me as my husband was dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Having been through it herself, she helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel. I appreciated all the involvement and support she gave to our class which enriched all of us.
Marilyn Sikorski
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Dear Bill , Chris, Nathan and Sarah,
I wish to express my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your
beloved wife and mother. May God and all the beautiful memories you’ve
shared with her comfort you in the days and weeks ahead.
Sincere Condolences
Marilyn
Marilyn Sikorski
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Dear Bill, Chris, Nathan, and Sarah,
I wish to express my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of a wife and
mother. May God and all the beautiful memories you’ve shared with
her comfort you in the days and weeks ahead.
Sincere Condolences,
Marilyn
Nannette Parziale LaCasse
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Dearest Joanne, may you rest in peace. You brought joy and laughter to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing you.
Prayers and deepest sympathy to Bill and your family, Uncle Joe and Marilyn and Joe, Tammy and Jimmy.
In Christ,
Nannette
Kathy Cook
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I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. I often spoke with Joanne when she was working and volunteering at TES. Even from the few conversations we had, her caring heart and genuine spirit radiated from her. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Stacey Keumurian
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I did not know Joanne well, but she was a constant presence at TES and will be missed by many. It was known that she loved all the children she came in contact with. Whenever I saw her at school she was smiling.
My sincere condolences to all of her family and friends.
Carolyn Reichard
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Joanne was such a wonderful parent to work with at TES. She supported so many children and families through her volunteering and work with PTO. She was such an advocate of our school counseling program and always made a point to help out anyone in need. I will miss her terribly and remember her always!
Jen Goulet
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Joanne always brought such a positive energy to our school. She was a special person who will be greatly missed. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Andrea Belley
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Joanne was a wonderful person that always made you feel “Welcome”. I am so sad to see of her passing. I befriended her through the years of baseball and elementary school from my 16 year old son. Always had a great smiling person!!! So will be missed!
Judy O'Connor
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Billy,and Family, Midge, Joan, Lynne, and Joanne’s Family,
I KNEW about Joanne, years ago, when my parents Leona & Timmy, went to Billy and Joanne’s wedding. My Mother would speak of her, how she was a very nice lady, how she wasn’t able to have children, later, how she and Bill adopted children. Years later, I found myself volunteering at The School Store (TES) chatting with this nice lady, when she told me her name, I said, “Oh, are you related to Billy, Lynne, Joan..” Of course she was! Then we became friends! She was kind enough to invite me, and my Niece. one Christmas Eve when we had no where to go (since Our Family, left the State! And now, so has my Niece!) and even gave us a gift! I was also invited for Midge’s Birthday Party, I only wish there was more time for more visits! We saw each other at soccer and school events, I’m sorry, I didn’t get to see her, one more time, she was a class act! So Sorry for your loss.
Lynne Zaher Belanger
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Joanne was my sister in law for 25 years. I feel very very fortunate to have her in our family. Joanne was a person who gave and never expected anything in return. She was always smiling and happy. Her battle with cancer did not change her. As soon as she would bounce back from a setback her first questions where how were you and your health (or other) problems. Joanne’s attitude during her two and a half year battle was always upbeat. She approached her illness as a bump in the road that we were going to overcome. Joanne was my support system and she was mine. We made many trips to Boston that were always followed up with a stop at Dunkin Donuts and a Sesame bagel. Joanne was always the hostess with the mostest during the holidays. She was a truly amazing women who will never be forgotten. I can’t tell you how much I miss her already. I don’t know how to tell my brother, nieces and nephews how sorry I am that she is no longer with us. I am at a loss to express my feelings to them. May god bless all of you. I know her spirit will live on in our hearts. Love Auntie Lynne
Nancy/Shelby Morton
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Joanne was a earth angel , walking in the grace of a beyond and above friend. She earned her heavenly wings way before being called home.
Pat Brophy
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Sjncere sympathy from an old neighbor. Nice lady, nice family. Sorry for your loss.
Pat Brophy
Emily Hoffman
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Bill, I am so sorry for your loss. Pete always spoke highly of Joann and thoroughly loved working with her. She had a wonderful demeanor and often brightened up the office with her positive attitude. Please know you are in my thoughts.
The White Family
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Dear Bill and Family…we are so saddened to hear of Joanne’s passing. We have so many wonderful memories of our time on the soccer fields over the years. She was a bright light and a wonderful person. Please accept our most sincere condolences. Mark, Ruth and Gregory White
Kristin Muraca
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Joanne has been a blessing to so many lives. Joanne’s strength and courage have been an inspiration and she has been a gift to all that had the pleasure to know her. I will miss her beautiful, smiling face! God Bless you Joanne and my your family!
Kristin Muraca
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Joanne has been a blessing to so many lives. Joanne’s strength and courage have been an inspiration and she has been a gift to all that had the pleasure to know her. I will miss her beautiful, smiling face! God Bless you Joanne and God Bless your family!
Julie Wilson
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We have had the pleasure of living next to the Zaher family for the last six years. Joanne was so welcoming right from the start. She immediately felt like someone we had known forever. She was honest, gracious and funny and we will miss her! Truly one of the classiest people, we have ever met. Sincerely, Julie Wilson.
Susan Lenzi
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Our world was blessed with this lovely angel. She touched everyone who was lucky enough to cross her path. Love you, Joann.
Diane Krikorian
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Dear Billy & family,
Although I didn’t know Joanne well, what I did know was that she lived her life to the fullest, in spite of any illness. Sending my deepest condolences for your loss.
Diane
Janet Flanders
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There is so much to say about Joanne and not enough space to do it here. Joanne has been a loving friend since Brownies where my mom was the leader -throughout the past 45 years I was lucky enough to be called Joanne’s friend. The Macrina’s were my second family. From elementary school, cheering squad at Holy Cross, countless high school experiences with the best class ever -OAHS 1980 -we served on the Reunion committee organizing 7 reunions. I can’t imagine working on the 40th without Joanne being a big part of it. Being In each other’s weddings, an unforgettable 3 week trip up and down the coast of California when we were 23, renting Marshfield cottages and endless special times with our kids, husbands and friends. Jo Jo I will love you forever and keep you in my heart. You made us laugh, cry and took care of us countless times. You are truly an angel. Rest peacefully and free of pain. Thank you for loving me.
Colleen Hogan-Mazzola
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As Nathan’s Teacher, I want to express my sympathy for his loss and loss for his family. Mrs. Zaher raised a wonderful young man, who I am proud to be able to teach. I am sure he will continue to make his mother proud in the years to come as she watches down upon him.
In Sympathy,
Colleen Hogan-Mazzola
linda beloin
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Joanne was a wonderful friend at Westfield and as we entered our 20’s. We lost touch over the years, but her smile will always be remembered. May she rest in peace. Linda Curley Beloin.
Jeanne V Silva
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I knew Joanne before she got married . she was a great girl to talk to , so friendly. We haven’t seen her for years. We are sadden .
Sheryl MacFadgen
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Joanne was a beautiful person inside and out. I didn’t know her very well but she always had a smile for everyone. I know she is resting in peace and looking down on everyone smiling.
David Poitras
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Thoughts & Prayers to the entire family.
JoJo,
I will miss you. Even though we only saw each other every few years, it was like we were still 17 years old. I wish I had half the courage and strength you have shown throughout your struggles. Every time we spoke, your undeniable love of life amazed me. There is a big hole in my heart now that can never be filled nor do I want it to be. I love you and will never forget you! We will dance again someday.
Poit
Kerry Fleming
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Bill,Christopher,Nathan and Family,
I am so sad to hear about Joanne’s passing. I can still remember the first day I met the Zaher family. I was Christopher’s PreSchool teacher at Imagination Childcare. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Koval Family
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Joanne was a wonderful person who cared a great deal about not only her own children but their friends and classmates as well. She will be missed here but Heaven has gained a very special angel to watch over her family from above. Our deepest condolences to her family. You’ll be in our prayers.
Diana Keohane
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It is hard to accept that such an incredible woman has been taken from her family and from our community. Joanne gave selflessly and made everyone and every generation feel special. When we founded the Education Foundation for Tyngsborough there was some fear amongst PTO members that we might step on their turf. Joanne never succumbed to that fear. She saw immediately that we were two organizations who wanted the best for the kids of Tyngsborough. She embraced EFT and all of us involved in it, inviting us to the PTO Back-to-School Barbecue and other TES PTO events. As a result, both organizations are strong and both are doing complementary work to support the academic and social development of Tyngsborough’s kids. She leaves behind a community who owes her a huge debt of gratitude and, through her work while she was with us, will not be forgotten. Bill and family, my heart is with you as you find your way and I pray that you feel Joanne’s love guiding each of you in the days and years to come.
Nancy Ring Falco
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Billy,
There are no words to adequately express my sorrow for your loss. Reading all the comments posted, it’s clear Joanne was an amazing human being, enriching the lives of everyone she touched. May you and your children, As well as both families, find strength and comfort in each other as well as those around you in the months ahead. May God help your hearts to heal over time, allowing you to cherish and delight in the memories of your too brief time with her. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
With love, Nancy
Kim "Sharp" Musto
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Joanne was so a fun, loving and a caring person. She lit up a room when she walked in. I was blessed to know her and loved seeing her at family parties of the Meade’s. My sincere sympathy to Bill, her family and friends. May she rest in piece.
Anthony & Mary Tranfaglia
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To Joe, James and family,
So very sorry for your loss. She was a dear daughter, and a loving and appreciated sister. We hope the good memories will
help you through this difficult time. Our sympathy to her husband and children also.
We love you James,
Anthony and Mary Tranfaglia
Anthony & Mary Tranfaglia
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To Joe, James and family,
So sorry for your loss. Joanne was a dear daughter, and much appreciated sister.. May your good memories of her help you through
this difficult time. Our sympathy to her husband and children as well.
We love you James
Anthony and Mary Tranfaglia
Marcia Luciano
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To the Zaher/Macrina Family
Very sorry for this terrible loss. We met at Westfield State college and lived on the 4th floor at Dickinson Dorm. My husband grew up in Easton,knew Joanne and also attended Westfield. Joanne was a bridesmaid at our wedding in 1983. Her smile, voice, and personality would just “light up a room”. What a privilege it was to have known her! She has truly earned her wings and I’m sure is looking over her family and friends, as an angel.
Our sincere sympathy.
Gordon & Marcia Luciano
Bob Michaud
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Bill
So sorry to hear the news. I wish I had the words to help you but life goes on for us all. She will always be there every day with you if there’s anything I can do let me know
Lisa Jacobs
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I knew Joanne through her brothers Joe and James whom I bowled with in Stoughton. She was a wonderful person, very warm, kind and always had a smile on her face. She will be truly missed. To Joe, Joe MAC and James, Eric and I send our love and condolences to you.