Our hearts are heavy as we remember our dear friend and neighbor, Joanne Certo, whose presence brought so much warmth, beauty and joy to all who knew her.

Joanne was the devoted wife of Peterjoe, a loving mother to Amanda, Jeremy, Corey, and her beloved daughter Jessica, who predeceased her, and a proud and adoring grandmother of Jaime and Jada. Her family was the center of her world, and nothing brought her greater happiness than time spent together-especially in recent years at their cherished home in Florida.

Joanne lived her life with purpose and passion. She spent many years working in the florist business, where her natural creativity and love of beauty flourished. That same love extended to her neighborhood, where she became an advocate for its health and preservation, especially during the Peace Bridge efforts. She cared deeply about her community and worked hard to protect it.

Her historic home, once featured in Spree magazine, reflected her unique spirit-welcoming, vibrant, and full of life. Joanne enjoyed gardening and generously shared her knowledge, inspiring neighbors to cultivate native plants and trees. Her gardens, like her friendships, were nurtured with care and intention.

In past years, you could often find Joanne walking through the neighborhood and Olmsted Parks, staying active while enjoying the beauty she helped protect. But what we will remember most is her radiant spirit-her unmistakable laugh, her bright smile, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Joanne leaves behind a circle of lifelong friends and neighbors who were blessed to know her. Her legacy will live on in the community she helped shape and the lives she touched so deeply.

To honor Joanne’s memory, we invite you to join us in planting a tree in the neighborhood park, Prospect Park, she loved so much-a living tribute to a life rooted in love, kindness, and community.

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The mission of Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy (BOPC) is to steward Buffalo’s historic Olmsted park and parkway system to benefit and to welcome all. The Conservancy works towards this through collaboration with community and strategic partners, advocating for quality parks for all, and enhancing the park system through beautification, maintenance and capital projects.

Plant a tree in honor of Joanne Certo

Team Members