It is with great sadness that our family announce the passing of Joanne M. DeNero, 76, of Old Forge, Monday at Regional Hospital of Scranton.  Starting in 2003, she had bravely fought many battles with cancer. She and her  husband Joseph R. DeNero recently celebrated their 54 ^th wedding anniversary. Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Chester and Julia Muklewicz. Joanne was a graduate of Taylor Moosic High School and was a devoted member of St. Ann's Basilica Parish in addition to volunteering with many other church groups. She is survived by her daughter, Nicole Ann Traeger and husband Ronald, Duryea, two grandsons, Devin and Aaron, one brother, Chester Muklewicz and wife Robin, Scranton.  She loved her nieces and nephews including Maggie Hawk, Scranton, Daniel Muklewicz, Philadelphia, Alan DeNero, Old Forge, and Lisa Karuzie, Avoca.

Her greatest passion in life was taking care of family and spending time with friends, many of whom she has kept in touch with over 6 decades.  She was proud to play the role of "grandma" especially when attending her two grandsons school church services. She will be remembered for her positive attitude and deep faith. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 10 am at St. Ann's Basilica by the Rev. August A. Ricciardi. Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Cemetery, West Scranton.

Visitation will be on Thursday, 4 to 7 pm in the Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 262 Railroad Avenue, West Scranton. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Ann's Basilica or local Cancer Society Agencies in her name.