Joanne C. Dugo

Joanne Dugo, daughter of Dorothy and John Cullen, dear sister of Patricia Cullen Angrisano (Michael) and Robert Cullen (Margrit), beloved wife of “Uncle John”, precious aunt of many, and known affectionately to all their friends as “Aunt Joanne”, died March 27, at almost 98 (her goal was 100!). Mrs. Dugo was born August 8, 1928 in Brooklyn, residing most of her life in Buffalo .

Aunt Joanne worked as a NY telephone operator, eventually beginning her lifelong teaching career, first at Nativity School, Buffalo and then, following her Masters degree, as Teacher of the Deaf at St Mary’s School for the Deaf, Buffalo. She relished her work and was an ardent supporter of the Buffalo Teachers’ Federation.

She was strong in her beliefs for equality and generosity, yet gentle and exemplary in modesty and humility.

Joanne was a member of Williamsville Art Society, the order of Mercedarians, the Clarence Contemporary Club and St Ann’s Sodality.

In reflection she would state that ‘all teachers should smile’ and that ‘guns should be wiped out.’

There will be a wake held from 4 to 8 p.m, April 7 at Perna, Dengler, Roberts Funeral Home, 1671 Maple Road, Williamsville and a Funeral Mass at 10 o’clock on April 8 at St. Peter and Paul Church, 5480 Main St, Williamsville. In lieu of flowers, donations will be graciously accepted at Hospice Buffalo.