Joanne (Janelle) Gastonguay

WELLS – The first things you noticed about Joanne (Janelle) Gastonguay were her sweet smile, the twinkle in her eyes, and her giggle. On Aug. 18, 2022, Jo was once again embraced by her beloved parents, her sister, nephews, and dozens of aunts and uncles.

Joanne was born the first of three girls on Feb. 23, 1945 to her parents George and Lucille (Labonte) Janelle. When she was younger, she enjoyed hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. An accomplished artist, she celebrated the amazing scenery of God’s world, especially the ocean, which she loved to visit.

Jo worked for decades at W.D. Matthew Machinery in Auburn, where she was much loved – and not just because she often brought doughnuts to the office. Her kindness, her generosity, and her interest in how people were doing in their lives endeared her to many – at work and among her many relatives.

Her large family was precious to her. Family always came first. One of her favorite activities was participating in family gatherings. She always made an effort to stay in touch with her family members near and far, calling them on their birthdays and offering support and encouragement to those who needed it. Her great faith in God was the well she drew from. Jo was especially proud of her daughter and her delight in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was boundless.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents George and Lucille (Labonte) Janelle; and her sister, Liane Grover; and her former husband, Roger Gastonguay.

She is survived by her daughter, Heidi Johnson of West Lebanon, N.H.; her sister, Diane Desenberg and husband Mark of South Berwick, brother-in-law, Michael Grover of Greene; her grandchildren Brian Johnson of Turner, and Courtney Lacasse and her husband Zack of Turner; five great-grandchildren; and many cousins; nephews, nieces; in-laws; and friends.

A mass will be held in her honor on Nov. 29 at 7:45 a.m. at St. Phillip’s Church in Auburn.

Please visit http://www.AdvantagePortland.com to sign Jo’s guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.