Joan Ann (Vannucci) Costamagna

Joan Ann Vannucci Costamagna, beloved wife of Arthur Costamagna of San Rafael, mother to Mary (Bob), Joanie, and Joe (Lisa), “Nonnie” to Elizabeth (Dan), Katherine (Scott), Andrew (Kylin), Kate, Anthony, Nicholas, and Tessa, great-grandmother of four, and survived by her sisters-in-law, Helen and Gayle,  passed away on August 11, 2025, after a long illness.

Born in San Francisco in 1934 to Dorothy and Gino Vannucci, Joan grew up with her two younger brothers, John and Gene, in North Beach, surrounded by a close-knit Italian-American family. She was a proud alumna of Presentation High School and Lone Mountain College. In 1958, she married Art, the love of her life, and they recently celebrated 67 years of marriage.

Joan began her career teaching grammar school for three years, a role she cherished, before devoting herself fully to her home and family. In 1970, the family moved to San Rafael, where Joan became an active member of her parish at St. Sylvester’s, volunteered generously with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and was deeply involved with The Children of Mary Sodality. She was a steady, welcoming presence in her neighborhood and to her children’s many friends.

A lifelong sports fan and natural athlete, Joan was known for her wicked tennis slice and her love of a good game—whether on the tennis court, bocce courts or playing Scrabble,  she was a fierce competitor in everything she did. She and Art treasured time spent at Lake Tahoe and on family cruises.

Joan’s warmth, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her big smile, joyful laugh, and love for life were gifts she shared freely. She was steadfast in her devotion to God, family and friends, and unfailingly kind to those who needed it most.

Services will be held at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 666 Filbert St., San Francisco at 11:00am on August 22,2025. A Rosary will be held at St Raphael’s Church, San Rafael at 700pm on August 21,2025.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to The Salesians Boys and Girls Club of SF or St Vincent de Paul Society of St. Raphael’s Church.

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