Madonna’s family is mourning the loss of her stepmother, Joan Ciccone, who passed away on Tuesday after battling an aggressive form of cancer.
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Joan played a significant role in Madonna’s upbringing. She initially worked as the family’s housekeeper in Michigan before marrying Madonna’s father, Silvio Ciccone, a few years after the death of Madonna’s mother, who also succumbed to cancer at the age of 30, TMZ reported. Joan and Silvio went on to have two children together, Jennifer and Mario. In addition to her family connections, Joan appeared in several documentaries about Madonna, including “I’m Gonna Tell You A Secret” and a television episode of “Biography.”
Joan also started a daycare, which she ran for two decades. She and Silvio also started Ciccone Vineyard and Winery in Michigan. Joan was heavily involved in the business, planting vines, harvesting grapes, and preparing meals for events at the winery’s tasting room. In addition to her work at the vineyard, she was also interested in fashion and antiques.
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Madonna’s team has not released a statement regarding Joan’s passing, but her family remembers her for her “enthusiasm, joy, and love.” Fans of the artist also offered their condolences upon hearing the news.