Jo-Anne (Lovallo) Gauger

Torrington- Jo-Anne (Lovallo) Gauger, 68, peacefully passed away at home on May 1, 2021. She was the wife of Alan Gauger for 46 years.

        Jo-Anne was born May 24, 1952 in Torrington, CT, the daughter of the late Joseph and Frances (Toro) Lovallo. Jo-Anne attended St. Peter School and Torrington High School, graduating in 1970. She attended Western CT State University graduating in 1974 with a degree in Elementary Education. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Reading and an Administration Degree. Jo-Anne worked as a teacher for 26 years and as a principal for 17 years at St. Peter/St. Francis School. She retired in June 2019. She was presently a communicant at Our Lady of Hope Parish in Harwinton.

        In addition to her beloved educational career, she was very involved in the Order Sons of Italy in America. She served as President of Anita Garibaldi Lodge in Torrington for 5 years. She then went on to hold offices at the State level. In 1993, Jo-Anne was elected the first woman State President. She held that position for 4 years. She then went on to serve as a National Trustee and National Education Chairperson. In that position, she oversaw the distribution of thousands of dollars of scholarships each year. The scholarships were awarded at elaborate events in Washington, DC with many politicians and dignitaries present. 

        In addition to her husband Alan, Jo-Anne is survived by a daughter Nicole Dulak and son-in-law Brian of New Hartford, CT; a son Wesley Gauger of Torrington, CT; two grandsons, who were truly the light and love of her life, Nicholas and Zachary Dulak; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bob and Vicki Gauger of Abilene, TX; brother-in-law, Mark Gauger of Harwinton, CT; sister-in-law, Heidi Gauger of Torrington, CT; an aunt, several nieces, nephews and cousins; her best friend of nearly 40 years, Manny D'Agostino, of New Port Richey, FL. Finally, Jo-Anne leaves her loyal companion, her chocolate lab, Beau who provided her hours of peace and joy.  

        The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Christina Gomez and Dr. Debra Brandt and all the staff from Smilow Cancer Center especially Abby for their compassion and care over the past 5 years. 

        Private funeral services have been entrusted to Gleeson-Ryan Funeral Home.

        In lieu of flowers, donations in Jo-Anne's name can be made to the Closer to Free Fund for Smilow Cancer Hospital at www.givetoynhh.org.

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