Joanne D (Pedicini) Wengefeld

Joanne Wengefeld, 87, formerly of Walpole, MA, passed away peacefully
on January 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and quiet
strength. Though she faced many hardships, she carried a remarkable love
for life. She met each challenge with resilience, grace, and a quiet
determination. Her strength never dimmed her warmth; instead, it deepened
her compassion and her ability to find joy in simple, everyday moments.
She was an avid gardener and incredibly hard worker, she found joy and
peace among her flowers, always eager to share her knowledge - and often
her plants - with others. These will be cheerful reminders of her for years to
come. She was also an accomplished artist whose work reflected her deep
appreciation for beauty in everything around her.
Her generosity was felt throughout her community. She was always ready to lend a hand, arriving with a
hot meal or freshly baked goods whenever a friend or neighbor was ill or in need. She had a remarkable
ability to find a home for anything—used furniture, clothing, or everyday items—ensuring nothing went to
waste and everything found someone who could use it. For years, she served as a collection point for
donations to local Veterans, quietly coordinating efforts that made a meaningful difference.
Those who knew her will fondly remember her signature baseball hats—worn in every color imaginable—
which became a charming reflection of her spirited, practical nature.
Joanne was predeceased by her husband, Eugene Schnell, her parents, Antonette and Marco Pedicini,
and her sister, Rosalie. She was the beloved mother of Linda and her husband Stan Mertz of Whitinsville,
Lee-Ann and her husband Rich McSweeney of Uxbridge, and Eugene Schnell and his wife Monika of
Baltimore, MD. Her two grandsons, Richard McSweeney of Arkansas and Eugene Schnell of
Washington, DC, were the light of her life. Her family was her greatest joy, and her legacy of love will live
on in their hearts.
Joanne lived a life marked by love, generosity, and resilience. Her spirit endures in the lives she touched,
the art she created, and the gardens she lovingly tended. She will be deeply missed.
A celebration of her life will be held in the spring when the flowers are in bloom, just as she would have
loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.