Joan Graboski

Joan (Dahlberg) Graboski, 89, a lifelong resident of Westerleigh, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, surrounded by the love of her four children. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, she lived a life full of joy with a strong purpose in supporting those she loved dearly. Joan was born to Carmen “Grace” and Oscar “Frank” Dahlberg in August 1935. Younger sister to Herbert, she was raised to have a strong dedication to her family and pride in her country. From childhood, Joan was a natural-born competitor and athlete. She enjoyed playing basketball, was the starting catcher for the “Wolverettes” softball team, and was occasionally scolded for playing ball with the boys in the neighborhood. This competitive spirit and drive led to success in many of her pursuits and passions. Joan was revered for her cooking, and famous for her Swedish meatballs, Swedish pancakes, and anything else you asked for while sitting at her kitchen table. Her competitive strategy led her to be a winning high roller at her favorite casinos in Atlantic City. She was a decorated bowler competing across Staten Island for many years. She served as Coach for the Mid-Island Little League Softball program. In the 1990’s Joan was the party and event coordinator at Showplace Entertainment Center. She was a long-time active congregant of Saint John’s Lutheran Church. Joan was also an avid fan of New York sports, especially the Mets, Jets, and Pat Riley’s Knicks, and she could talk sports with anyone like a professional analyst.

Joan was preceded in death by her high school sweetheart and beloved husband of 63 years, Ronald E. Graboski, whom she met while attending Port Richmond High School and married in October 1955. Joan and Ron had a partnership that few enjoy in life, sharing interests and hobbies, supporting one another in successes and challenges, and building a beautiful life and family together. Joan is survived by her four children, Ronald D. Graboski (Diane), Steven Graboski (Nancy), Edward Graboski (Gerri), and Joann Mostovoy (Vadim) as well as her ten grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Joan cherished her family and was a staunch champion for their accomplishments, never missing a game, performance, school event, and anything in between- and making sure to let you know you were “the best one” there. Joan lived for her family, always putting their needs before her own, making sure they wanted for nothing, had every opportunity, and knew how special they were to her. She truly found joy in the happiness and success of her family and her enthusiasm as our “number one fan” will never be replaced.

"Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life."– Revelation 2:10

A visitation for Joan will be held Sunday, January 5, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314.

A religious ceremony will occur Monday, January 6, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. John's Lutheran Church, 216 Jewett Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302.

A committal service will occur Monday, January 6, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Peter's Cemetery, 52 Tyler Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310.