Joann Oddo

Joann Oddo, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was born on January 4, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. Joann was the 5th of 6 children born to Bartolo and Vita Zichichi. She brought warmth and joy to her family and friends, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Joann passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, in Sterling Heights, Michigan, closing a rich chapter of love and devotion that spanned nearly 85 years.

Joann devoted her life to raising her four cherished children: Mary (Mike) Lebioda, Vita (Dr. James) Vyskocil, Catherine (David) Schlaff, and Andrew Oddo. Her home was a sanctuary filled with the comforting aroma of daily home-cooked meals, and her Sunday spaghetti dinners became a treasured tradition. Within the walls of the home she built alongside her late husband, Vito A. Oddo, the family created countless memories that will forever be held close to their hearts.

Joann's pride and joy were her 4 children, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. She delighted in gathering her family for birthday parties, holidays, and sporting events, bringing people together with her unwavering spirit and love. Each moment spent together was a testament to her commitment to family, and nothing made Joann happier than seeing everyone united in laughter and love.

Her strength, loyalty, and deep faith defined her character. She graduated from Pershing High School at the tender age of 16 and married Vito at the age of 18, welcoming her first child shortly thereafter. Life was not always easy, but her resolve never wavered; Joann faced every challenge with grace and fortitude.

The memories of Joann will be cherished by her loving family, including her grandchildren: Lauren (Ryan) Plantrich, James Vyskocil, Jennifer Vyskocil, A.J. Schlaff, Jacqueline (Joseph) Riggs, Mary Schlaff, Joseph Vyskocil, Jon Schlaff, Catherine Schlaff, Vito Oddo, and Lily Margiljaj, as well as her great-grandchildren: Lucas Plantrich, Evelyn Plantrich, June Riggs, and Jenavieve Riggs. Each one held a special place in her heart, and her legacy will live on through them.

As we honor the memory of Joann Oddo, we remember the remarkable person she was—filled with love for her family and an unyielding spirit that inspired everyone around her. She will be missed deeply, but her love will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan, with a Rosary service to be held at 7:00 PM. Joann's Funeral Service will follow on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM, also at Wysocki Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.

Rest in peace, Joann. Your love will forever be cherished, and your spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of your family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to "The Vito Oddo Parkinson's Fund" (Make checks payable to The Foundation of First Health, write "Vito Oddo" in the memo line, and mail to: The Foundation of First Health, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374).

Please share a memory, thought, or prayer with the family here on Joann's Obituary Page.