Maryjo Sottek

Maryjo Sottek, 81, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Trillium Place.

Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late John N. Hoffman and Josephine (Hogan) Hoffman. Maryjo was the beloved wife of the late Stephen T. “Tom” Sottek, who passed away in 2023. Together, they shared over 57 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and cherished traditions.

A 1963 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, Maryjo was actively involved in school musicals and was honored with the Annual Music Achievement Award. Her love of music continued throughout her life, most notably singing in the church choir in her early life. Maryjo attended St. Joseph Catholic Church and previously attended St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church.

Maryjo found great joy in gardening, especially tending to her beautiful flowers. She and her husband enjoyed traveling together, creating lasting memories in places such as Sedona, AZ; Mystic, CT; Bar Harbor, ME; and Disney World.

Above all, Maryjo treasured time with her family. She took great joy in bringing her family together, thoughtfully coordinating special gatherings and preparing spectacular holiday dinners that became cherished traditions. Her warmth, organization, and love created traditions that will live on for generations.

She is survived by her children: Thomas C. Sottek of Millersville and Lori Beth Tuinstra of Columbus, OH; four grandchildren, Kaeli, Blake, Mason, and Ryleigh; and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, John G. (Suzanne) Hoffman of Lancaster, Colleen F. (Tim) Johns of Landisville and, along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Maryjo was preceded in death by her sister, Delana C. Johnson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 440 Saint Joseph St. Lancaster, PA 17603. Family and friends will be received from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Inurnment will take place at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Trillium Place for the kindness and care shown to Maryjo, especially Michelle, her primary nurse, as well as Milynn, Antena, and Vicki, whose support meant so much during this time.