Joanne O’Brien, loving mother, grandmother and sister

OLEAN – Joanne O’Brien, 86, of Olean, passed away Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, at Olean General Hospital, following a long illness. She faced her illness with courage and dignity and is now at peace.

Born Feb. 10, 1940, in Olean, Joanne was the daughter of Louis M. and Marion M. Rogers DaPolito.

The oldest of six children, she grew up in Olean alongside her four brothers, Louie, Tom, Ron and Bob, and her younger sister, Kathy. She cherished her close-knit family and the many memories they shared.

Joanne graduated from Olean High School in 1958 and continued her education at Craig Colony School of Nursing in Sonyea, where she earned her nursing degree.

She began her nursing career at St. Francis Hospital and became especially known for her work as a pediatric nurse at Olean General Hospital. Nursing was more than a profession for Joanne; it was a natural expression of her caring spirit. She was especially devoted to her young patients, bringing warmth, compassion and reassurance to the children and families in her care.

Joanne was an active member of the Olean High School Alumni Association and particularly enjoyed helping organize annual reunions. She valued the friendships she maintained throughout her life and loved bringing people together.

She was also active in the senior citizens group at the John Ash Center, where she enjoyed traveling with the Coasters.

Joanne had a remarkable zest for life. Energetic, fiercely independent and a little feisty, she never met a stranger. She was happiest, surrounded by family and friends, sharing good food and laughter. Always ready to dance, Joanne had a gift for turning an ordinary gathering into a celebration.

Joanne is survived by her son, Tim (Susan) O’Brien, and his wife, Susan; her three granddaughters, Haley, Erin and Tara; her brothers, Ron and Tom (Beth) DaPolito; her sister, Kathy Dziadkowicz; Bob’s wife, Rose DaPolito; her sister-in-law, Donna DaPolito; and members of her extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Marion DaPolito; her brothers, Louie; Bob and Ron’s wife, Colleen DaPolito; and her beloved son, Kenny O’Brien.

Joanne will be remembered for her boundless energy, generous heart, independent spirit and the joy she brought to the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 1, 2026) at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, 646 E. State St., Olean. A concelebrated Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:15 a.m. Monday (Nov. 2, 2026) at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, 202 S. Union St., Olean, by Father David Tourville, pastor, and Father Charles Van Heusen, pastor of the St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Bonaventure Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.