Mary Joanne Sinopoli, 78, of Lancaster, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2009, at Hospice of Lancaster County in Mount Joy. She was born on March 31, 1931, in Lancaster, PA. She was a daughter of the late Alex Sr. and Frances Gerz. She was preceded in death by her husband, the late George Sinopoli Sr.

Mrs. Sinopoli was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. She was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School. Mrs. Sinopoli was employed by Dorwart Andrew and Company and was a computer programmer for Eshelman Feeds. She was also involved in Gerz Nurseries and East End Daycare; both were her family's businesses. Mrs. Sinopoli enjoyed reading and spending time at her cabin in Perry County. She loved being with her many children and her pet dog "Katie".

Mrs. Sinopoli is survived by her daughter, Ellen Shutt, life partner of Tom Hart; two sons: Sam Gatchell, husband of Glenda, and Joe Gatchell, husband of Donna; two step-sons: George Sinopoli, Jr., husband of Joyce, and David Sinopoli, husband of Marina; three grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; and her many extended Daycare grandchildren; a sister, Rose Zechany; and four brothers: Barry Gerz Sr., Joseph Gerz Sr., Bernard Gerz, and Francis Gerz. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Sinopoli was preceded in death by three brothers: Alex Gerz Jr., Robert Gerz, and Charles Gerz.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, beginning at 10 AM at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Chapel, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A Celebration of Life and time of sharing memories will follow at 10:30 AM. Visitation with the family will conclude the service. Interment will be at the discretion of the family. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shelter for Abused Woman, 229 E Orange St. Lancaster, PA 17602-2914. To send an online condolence please visit:snyderfuneralhome.com