Johanna Sharkey

Johanna Sharkey, 86, of Chicago, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025. Born on May 18, 1938, on the Southwest Side of Chicago in Back of the Yards, Johanna was the daughter of Bruno and Alice Burba. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Bernadine (Angelo) Roccaselva, her brothers-in-law Teddy, Roger, and Jimmy Sharkey, and her beloved great-granddaughter Johanna Garcia.

Joan, as she was lovingly known, is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Sharkey Sr.; her loving children Nanette (Carlos) Ramirez, Thomas Sharkey Jr. (Julie Young), and Donna (Thomas) Keller Sr.; her sister-in-law, Leona Meager, and brother-in-law, Billy Sharkey. Johanna’s legacy lives on through her adoring grandchildren Roger Sharkey, Nicole (Matthew) Kierstyn, Kelly Keller (Chris Laurin), Natalia (Jose) Garcia, Kristina Ramirez, and Thomas Keller Jr., as well as her precious great-grandchildren Logan, Savannah, Sierra, Aria, Madelyn, Julianna, Giovanna, and Evianna. She is also cherished by many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and her Lakepoint and TWA family.

Joan had a love for life and a deep passion for travel. She enjoyed many trips, particularly traveling with her dear mother-in-law, Jean Sharkey. As a lifelong traveler, she enjoyed cruising, watching the Olympics, and traveling with her husband on TWA flights. She was a proud member of the TWA Seniors Club. Joan was also a fan of watching bull riding, ice skating, Family Feud, and all shows by Dick Wolf, especially his iconic Chicago crime dramas.

Joan worked for 20 years as a parking enforcement aide for the City of Chicago, a role she enjoyed as much as her earlier years as a waitress at Chesdan’s and Dark Horse Pub, where she made lasting memories and friendships.

A proud Chicagoan, Joan had a love for her hometown’s teams, especially the Chicago Cubs, and she admired both Mayor Daley’s for their roles in the city. Her ties to Chicago were strong, and she was a true fan of the city.

Joan will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her infectious spirit and love for family will never be forgotten. A visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 4 pm to 8 pm at Szykowny Funeral Home, located at 4901 S. Archer Ave in Chicago, IL, to honor her life. Prayer service will be held by her nephew Joseph Roccasalva. Private interment will follow at a later date at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest.

May Joan rest in peace, forever remembered by those who loved her.