Mary Joanne Tersigni (nee Dales), peacefully passed into the hands of our lord and saviour, surrounded by her family, in her 81st year on March 8, 2026.
Beloved and devoted wife of Ralph Tersigni for 54 years. Cherished mother of Patti, Dominic, Eddie, and Laura and loved mother-in-law to David Wood, Daniella, Katherine, and Joshua Torres. Doting and fiercely proud grandmother to Adrian and Ella; Jane and Katherine Wood; Hope; and Lillian and Isabella Torres. Adored sister of Peter Dales and sister-in-law Judy Dales (Toronto), brother-in-law Peter Flachs (Walkerton), and sister-in-law to Loretta Wilke, Dominic and Jo Ann (Hamilton), Frank and Evelyn, MaryAnn and Andy Angerilli, Joe and Liz, Theresa, Margie and Mike Misurka (Cambridge), and John and Lisa (Elora).
She will be dearly missed by many precious nieces, nephews, Moir and Dales cousins, Tersigni family, dear and cherished friends, and by her community.
Joanne is predeceased by her parents George and Mary Dales; sister and best friend, Jane Flachs; brother George (Geordie) and sister-in-law Cecile; and brothers Reverend Fr. Richard Dales and Michael Dales. Also by her parents-in-law, Dominic and Margaret Tersigni, and extended Tersigni family, Oliva, Sam and Patricia, Alan Wilke, and Tony.
Born and raised in Cargill, Ontario, Joanne moved to Guelph in 1971 when she married Ralph. She embraced her community and lived a life filled with family, unwavering faith, and service to others. Joanne was an incredible hostess. Known for years as Mrs. T., she welcomed people into her home with warmth and love. She tended to her beautiful gardens passionately and shared that love with all of us, often surprising her family and friends with plants for the changing seasons. She ministered to those in need and believed deeply in the power of her community to support and nourish. Joanne’s quiet strength was a testament to her deep Catholic faith and her family roots, carrying her into her next life.
Friends and relatives were invited to visit Holy Rosary Parish (175 Emma St. Guelph) on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 2 – 5 pm. A Memorial Mass was held at Holy Rosary Parish on Monday, March 16 at 10:30 am, Committal Service followed at Marymount Cemetery (5400 Hwy. 6, Guelph). A reception was held at Holy Rosary Parish Hall following the committal service.
As an expression of sympathy and of Joanne’s service to those in need, donations to the Holy Rosary Food Pantry would be appreciated by the family.
