Josephine Ann Chinchak

1949 – 2025

With deep love and sadness, we share that JoAnn Chinchak, age 75, passed away peacefully on Thursday October 16, 2025, with her loving husband at her side. She is survived by her husband Gary and her son Joseph Day (Connie Day).

Born in Michigan, JoAnn (Oliva) was the youngest of four children. Her family’s story began in Sicily, Italy where her parents and one of her brothers were born. Her parents traveled from and back to Italy, and then permanently settled in the US. Here JoAnn was born and completed the family. This strong sense of family and connection stayed with her throughout her life — she was the heart that kept everyone close, no matter the distance.

JoAnn spent her career as a caring and dedicated nurse, caring for others with the same kindness she showed her family and friends. Her gift for nurturing was not just a profession — it was who she was at her core. She faced many medical challenges over the years, including battling cancer. Through it all, she remained remarkably strong and optimistic, always believing the glass was half full. Her “Sicilian” resilience and positive spirit were an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

JoAnn married Gary Chinchak in Michigan in 1987 and they were blessed to share 38 wonderful years together. For the past 18 years, she and Gary enjoyed their retirement winters in Arizona and in Utah. These places became a second home filled with sunshine, laughter, and friendship. There, she and Gary built a beautiful circle of friends who shared countless memories and supported one another through every season of life. This community meant so much to her — they were family.

She was a loving mother to her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph & Connie Day, and a devoted stepmother to Gary Chinchak II (Heather), Christy Semark (Chris), Joni Chinchak, and Aaron Chinchak. JoAnn was a very proud and loving Nana to her beautiful grandchildren (Courtney, Tiffaney, Dakota, Chloe, & Jaden, Brianna, and Brendan) and her precious great grandchildren (Anthony and Cassius). And always by her side was her beloved dog, Josie, her faithful companion and source of comfort.

Those who knew JoAnn will remember her for the way she made everyone feel cared for. She believed in showing up — in making the call, sending the card, or taking the trip — to remind her family how much they were loved.

Her love will continue to guide us and forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She is now at peace and reunited with her parents Margaret and Salvatore, her brothers Joseph and Phil, and her sister Rose Marie; whose memories she always carried very close to her heart.

Thank you to all who loved her.