Obituary of Joan Funaro

Joan Funaro (Murach), 72 of East Haven, passed away on December 10, 2013 at home. Joan “Skippy” was born August 22, 1941 and attended New Haven Schools and received her cosmetology certificate. Her career began at Jo-Ed Salon; she opened her first shop in Morris Cove and five years later relocated across the street to begin 40 years of providing salon services at Cove East Coiffures. She truly loved her work and took much pride in making clients feel comfortable with shared stories and concerns and providing the expertise to enable them to look their best. She was caring and generous, was always willing to give suggestions and advice. Everyone knew Joan with her red hair and Lucy look. She will surely be missed. She was widowed early by her first husband Thomas Rispoli and by her husband of 43 years, John “Fin” Funaro. She was also predeceased by her mother, Irma Barbieri Kish, father Stanley Murach, and her nephew, Kenneth J. Bontatibus. She is survived by her sister, Gail (Murach) Bontatibus of Peoria, AZ; cousins Rosemarie, Jo Ann Tammaro and family and Connie Carrano of Milford, Ct.; and by her step granddaughter, Dana Blanchard. She leaves her 40 year business and devout friend Inge Murray, loving members of the Victor DeFelice family, other longtime friends Mary Cofrancesco, David Thornton, and most recently Carlene White who with Inge gave unconditional comfort and care to Joan through the final stages of her illness. Joan loved her animals as was known by their accompanying her to the shop and to the VA Hospital where she made over 4 years of visits to her husband John. There are many people who touched and were part of her life and it is important to share with you how much she appreciated all of you. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Sunday, December 15, 2013 at the Clancy Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. Funeral procession will leave Clancy Funeral Home on Monday at 10:40 for a 11 AM Mass of Christian Burial in St. Bernadette Church, Townsend Ave, New Haven. Committal to follow at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the East Haven Animal Shelter in memory of “Tony”. We thank Joan for making a difference too many in her own unique way. May she rest and be at peace.