Joan Frances (Mendes) Bobrowiecki, 90
Joan Frances (Mendes) Bobrowiecki died peacefully on the evening of March 1, 2026, with her loving family by her side. She was 90 years old.
Joan was born in New Bedford, MA to Fernando C. Mendes Jr. and Frances (Rebello) Mendes. She met the man who would later become her husband, Mike Bobrowiecki, at the Lincoln Park Ballroom. They were married for 36 years.
While she and Mike were raising four children, Joan received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, her Master of Education, and her Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Early Childhood Education. She was a school teacher with the Dartmouth Public Schools for 32 years. As she recalled, she was so fortunate to have a career that she loved. She was always happy when a former student approached her. Joan remained friendly with many of her co-workers after her retirement.
Throughout her 90 years, Joan expressed her love and kindness in countless ways. She loved most being with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her life was further enriched by her companion of 15 years, Bob Maccini and his family.
After she retired, Joan volunteered with the St. Luke’s Hospital Auxiliary, Hospice Care for SouthCoast Hospitals and the Missionaries of Charity. She enjoyed spending quality time with her family and friends. Joan cherished watching her grandchildren play sports. She found happiness at the beach, reading and getting to meet her favorite author, gardening, and eating ice cream. Joan could often be found watching her favorite Hallmark movie. She enjoyed Facebook and reaching out to her friends in that manner.
Joan is survived by her loving children, Mary Santos and her husband Jeffery, Michael Bobrowiecki and his wife Lynne, Thomas Bobrowiecki, and Judy McCabe and her husband Sean, as well as her devoted grandchildren, Michelina, Jack, Colin and Bridget, and her four great-grandchildren, Eliana, Tru, Cash and Blossom.
Joan was predeceased by her parents, her husband Michael A. Bobrowiecki, her companion Robert C. Maccini, and her brother James Mendes. Her light, goodness, and loving heart will remain a part of us always.
Joan’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11 AM at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 121 Mount Pleasant Street, New Bedford, MA. Her family will receive visitors at the church from 10-11 AM prior to the Mass. A private burial will follow in the future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Missionaries of Charity, 556 County Street, New Bedford, MA 02740. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park Street, New Bedford.
