Joan Caizzi Ballaro 75 of Stratford, beloved wife of the late Leonard A. Ballaro (Weezy) passed peacefully on August 16, 2011 in her home surrounded by her family. Born on June 10, 1936 in New York to the late Mauro and Catherine Mangino Caizzi. She was a life long Stratford resident. Joan was a kind and loving women who opened her heart and home to many through out the years. She loved playing cards with "The Girls" and enjoyed the seashore especially at Atlantic City. Bonds Dock was a favorite place for her to drink her coffee especially in the rain. Joan's macaroni dinners on Sundays will be fondly remembered by all that she welcomed to her table. There was always room for one more. Joan leaves behind to cherish her memories five devoted children. Her sons and daughter in laws: Leonard and Diana Ballaro, Frank and Annmarie Ballaro, David and Angeline Ballaro of Stratford, Michael and Andrea Ballaro of Shelton, her daughter Lisa Ballaro and fiance Ed Pelaggi of Stratford. She also leaves behind with a lifetime of love, laughs and adventures her two sisters: Madeline Galanis and Gina Reeves, a brother Stephen Caizzi and wife Linda Ballaro Caizzi. Known lovingly as Nina to her 19 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. She will be remembered for her hugs, kisses, ice cream for breakfast, candy when mom said no and her strong shoulders to lean on. She also leaves behind her "Blonde Family", several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Joan was predeceased by her grandson Michael Buzard. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405. Please join her children to celebrate her life on Sunday August 21, 2011 at Vazzano's Four Seasons 337 Kenyon Street Stratford at Noon. All other services and interment are private and have been entrusted to the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford.