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Obituary

Joan Marie Paoletti of Upper Arlington, passed away April 17, 2026 at the age of 96. She leaves a lasting legacy through her five children, nine grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren, in whom she instilled, by her example, the values of faith, a strong marriage, and devoted family life. She cherished her growing family, welcoming each new member with great joy and love. Joan's kind spirit, genuine interest in the well-being of others, and warm smile will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Born in Delta, Ohio, Joan graduated from Delta High School in 1947, remaining close with her classmates throughout her life. Relocating to Columbus to attend Bliss College, she earned a diploma in Office Management. While studying, Joan worked part-time at Paoletti Restaurant on South 3rd Street where she met her future husband Aldo Paoletti. Family legend recalls Aldo's marriage proposal at her student dorm, followed by a romantic date at the Valley Dale Ballroom.They married at St. Agatha Catholic Church in 1948, later becoming lifelong members of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Joan and Aldo celebrated 68 wonderful years of marriage in the Fall of 2016. Joan was a remarkable wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She was deeply committed to her family, her community, and her neighborhood, where she helped foster a spirit of connection and care. Known for her hospitality, Joan hosted many memorable neighborhood gatherings, including serving members of the Upper Arlington football team a homemade lasagna dinner. Her life was full of school and church activities, dance and piano recitals, and countless baseball and football games for which she was always a faithful cheerleader. Joan supported the operation of Paoletti Restaurant until its closing in 1972. She later enjoyed international travel with the Ohio Restaurant Association and attending Aldo's USN Air Group 27 reunions. Her favorite family adventures were the many road trips to Colorado with children and luggage piled in the family station wagon, to visit her dear sister Jean, brother-in-law Ivan, and their four children. Joan was a member of The Gourmet Society, OSU Mother's Club, and McConnell Health Center. Artistic and creative, she loved decorating for the holidays, and creating handmade clothing, crafts, and hand blown decorated Easter eggs. She had a flare for fashion, loved jewelry, and enjoyed finding a good bargain. In her later years, Joan cared for her husband with great love and devotion. After Aldo's passing, she showed remarkable strength and resilience, continuing to live life fully and independently. Joan became a member of the Upper Arlington Senior Center where she enjoyed classes and the camaraderie of her peers. One of her greatest joys was knitting and giving away hundreds of beautiful cotton dishcloths to friends, family, professionals and service providers who came into her life. Joan remained a constant source of love and support for her family and continued to be a treasured presence in her neighborhood. During cool afternoons, she became a familiar and cherished figure sitting outside her home enjoying the neighborhood activity and visiting with friends. Joan is survived by her loving children: Tom (Shirley) Paoletti, Krista (Dave) Surrey, Karen Paoletti, JoAnn (Don) Riepenhoff, and Dan (Paula) Paoletti; nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and many dear nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by her husband, Aldo; her parents, Martha Rose and Thomas; and her sister, Jean. A private Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Joan will be laid to rest alongside Aldo at the National Cemetery in Dayton. Our family extends their deepest gratitude to Ohio Hospice House, and Ohio Health Homereach Hospice for their compassionate care. If desired, donations may be made in Joan's memory to Ohio Hospice House, Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, or the Upper Arlington Senior Center; now called the Bob Crane Community Center. Mom, we love you and miss you always. Thank you for your lifelong love.