Joanne A. Petitto, 82, of Lancaster passed away Thursday, March 27, 2014 at Hospice & Community Care, Mt. Joy surrounded by her loving family. Born in Pittsburgh, PA she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Agnes Shaner. She was married to her loving husband of 50 years, James M. Petitto.

Joanne graduated from St. Mary of the Mount School located in Pittsburgh. She went on to graduate from Pitts School of Dentistry and spent most of her younger years actively involved with the ADA organization on a local and state level. Her and her husband owned and operated the former Papa Bear's Tavern in Manheim. After moving back to Lancaster, Joanne became a realtor and earned her ABA, working for Coldwell Banker Slaugh and Cooper.

Joanne was a lifetime member of the Millersville VFW, Post#7294 and was active in the women's auxiliary. She shared a passion for local and state politics and was an active participant in many local campaign races.

Joanne was a member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church.

She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

In addition to her husband she is survived by her daughter, Judeann Stipe, of Lancaster and a son, Joe Petitto, of Rockville, MD. Also surviving are 3 grandchildren, Meagen, Eric, Caitlin and one great-grandchild, Ava.

A Mass of Christian will be held at 11AM on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2427 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601 with Rev. Peter I. Hahn as Celebrant. A viewing will be held from 6-8PM on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at the Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543 and again one hour prior to the mass at church on Wednesday. Interment in St. Joseph's New Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joanne's memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.