Sr. Joann Dimarcurio, C.S.J.

Joann DiMercurio was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 21, 1942, the daughter of Albert and Antoinette (Giacalone) DiMercurio.  She was a member of St. David Parish in Detroit at the time of her entrance into the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Nazareth on September 12, 1961. She received the name Sister Mary Salvatore at her reception on July 2, 1962 but returned to the use of her baptismal name in later years.  She pronounced first vows on August 17, 1964 and final vows on August 17, 1967. Sister Joann earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Nazareth College and a Master of Arts degree in Guidance and Counseling from Central Michigan University.  Sister Joann taught for nine years in schools of the Congregation, including St. Catherine Parish in Algonac; St. James Parish in Ferndale; and St. Rita Parish in Detroit.  For seven years she was engaged in Parish Ministry at St. James Parish in Ferndale and St. Benedict Parish in Highland Park. Afflicted with multiple sclerosis, Sister Joann then began ministering to people with the same disease.  She performed this service with great love and compassion.  Her own experience of suffering opened her heart and eyes to the pain and loss of others.  At the time of her Golden Jubilee she stated that her own pain and loss created within her a space for God.  Despite her illness she was a woman who moved beyond herself into the lives of others. Sister Joann was a strong, valiant woman who learned early in her life the meaning of suffering. She loved life and was deeply committed to the people of God.  Personal friendships enriched her life and she had the gift not only to give love, but to receive love. Her goal each day was to reach out to others in love, and this she did very well.  Sister Joann was most grateful to those who were her caregivers over the years --- especially her dear friends, Sister Joyce DeShano and Sister Mary Ann Wyllie whose love and care sustained her each day.  She appreciated the loving support of family and her CSJ community.  Now God’s love has embraced Sister Joann and she rejoices in the place that God has prepared for her.