Josephine Patricia Tholenaar

It is with heavy hearts and profound admiration that we announce the passing of Josephine Patricia Tholenaar, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Josephine passed away peacefully at her home on April 15, 2026, after a courageous and graceful battle with cancer. She was 84 years old. Josephine was born on March 20, 1942, in the lush landscapes of Ireland to her devoted parents, Patrick and Sarah Winters. Her early life in Ireland was filled with the vibrant colors of the countryside and the warmth of a close-knit family. These early experiences helped shape her love for art and her unparalleled ability to see beauty in the world. In 1963, Josephine married the love of her life, Cosmo DeFalco. Their partnership was one of joy and mutual respect, blessed with a son, Gary P. DeFalco. Despite the tragic loss of Cosmo after only 17 years of marriage, Josephine’s strength and grace never wavered. Later in life, she found love again with Francis Tholenaar, her dedicated spouse who survives her. Josephine was an accomplished professional, retiring as an Executive Vice-President for a thriving cosmetics company. Her career was a testament to her intelligence, determination, and leadership abilities. Beyond her professional achievements, Josephine was deeply committed to her community. She was an active member of The Cursillo Movement in The Catholic Church, where she nurtured her faith and found fellowship. Her love for the arts extended to volunteering at her local theatre, where she shared her passion for creativity and storytelling. Her artistic soul was evident in everything she did. Josephine excelled in painting, and her works were a reflection of her ability to capture the beauty she saw in the world around her. Her brushstrokes were filled with the same warmth and kindness that she extended to everyone she met. Josephine's pure spirit was a beacon to all who knew her. Her kindness and compassion drew people to her, and they would often find themselves engaged in deep, meaningful conversations, touched by her genuine interest and empathy. She had an innate ability to see the best in everyone, and her optimism was contagious. Josephine’s legacy is carried forward by her surviving family members: her devoted spouse, Francis Tholenaar; her loving son, Gary P. DeFalco; two cherished grandchildren, and two beloved great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, and her love for them was boundless. A service to celebrate Josephine’s life will be held on April 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery, located at 1500 South State Road 7, North Lauderdale, FL 33068. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life beautifully lived and a soul profoundly loved. Josephine Patricia Tholenaar touched the lives of many with her grace, love, and unwavering kindness. Her legacy of warmth and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.