Joan Mastropolo LaSala was born on March 20, 1939 in New York City to the late Mary (Galgano) and John Mastropolo, MD. Until 11 Joan lived with her parents and siblings in the Gun Hill section of the Bronx when the family settled in the Crestwood section of Yonkers. Joan was a proud cheerleader at Roosevelt High School. She attended Mt. St. Vincent’s College and received her nursing degree at St. Vincent’s Hospital. It was during her time at “the mount” when she began a 67 year courtship with Stephen LaSala. They were married at the Church of the Annunciation in 1960 where they remained parishioners. Joan was an active member of the Crestwood community and touched every aspect of life at Annunciation; from girl scout troop leader to Hillcrest Lakers coach, to member of the “newcomers club” and women’s Club of Crestwood. Joan was a part of the Annunciation Players where she performed in the Antics and would tap dance for anyone that would watch. For many years on Tuesdays, Joan could be found volunteering with the Missionaries of Charity at the soup kitchen of St. Rita’s in the South Bronx. She enjoyed a 45 year devotion to Mother Teresa. Joan was a quiet volunteer, never taking a lead role. One could find her visiting Hospice patients or playing the piano at a nursing home. She even went to New Orleans with the Red Cross after Hurricane Katrina. Joan and Steve were long time members of Leewood Golf Club where she spent many happy days and twilight nights singing into a spoon. But more important than all of this was the love Joan had for her family. She was the oldest to 3 brothers and doted on them even as adults. She enjoyed throwing many family parties for cousins and extended family. No one could make Christmas Eve dinner better than Joan! Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Together with Steve, they took 4 trips to Italy with all eleven grandchildren. Joan was no stranger to difficulties. She survived multiple cancers and dealt with mental health issues throughout her life. Her faith was her greatest strength and got her through many hardships.
Joan is survived by her husband Stephen, daughter MaryLou Pagano (Ed) son-in-law, John and daughter-in-law, Marianne; 11 grandchildren and spouses and three great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brothers John, Paul & Peter and her children Andrea Skularek and Stephen, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, donations kindly accepted to the Missionaries of Charity, 335 East 145th Street Bronx NY 10451 and Cabrini Nursing Home
Calling Hours: 4 to 8 pm, Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Mass: 11 am, Thursday, June 15, 2023 at Annunciation Church, Crestwood
Condolences(7)-
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Previous Krause, Ellen J.
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Loren McCarthy says
June 12, 2023 at 1:28 pmMaryLou we are heartbroken for you and your family. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tony Fragetti says
June 12, 2023 at 6:34 pmSteve, MaryLou and extended family, our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers extend to you all ??! Joan was truly a classy lady, her memory will be apart of everyone she knew…Lori and Tony Fragetti ?❤️?
Susan Conte says
June 13, 2023 at 5:15 amMaryLou, Mr. LaSala, and family, my heart goes out to you.
Please count on my love and prayers for each of you.
Susan Conte, osu
Paula Flaherty says
June 13, 2023 at 9:31 amMy cousin Joan was my nurse at St Vincents Hospital when I had an extended stay there as a 4 year old. Joan was a treasure to all. I’m sad that I won’t see Joan anymore in this world however I know that she is resting peacefully with the Lord and in the company of Andrea, Steve, Peter, John, Paul and her Mother and Father. Godspeed with much love Joan!❤️?
Linda Mitchell says
June 13, 2023 at 12:43 pmThe world has lost one of a kind! I will always cherish my memories of Joan especially her laugh! My deepest condolences to Marylou, Mr. LaSala and your entire family. I know Joan is happy and at peace. God Bless!
Mary Lometti Bendik says
June 14, 2023 at 12:56 pmSo saddened to hear of the passing of your Mom. Your family is in our prayers??
The Lometti Family
Mary lometti says
June 14, 2023 at 1:00 pmYour family is in our prayers.
The Lometti Family