Cynthia S. York, 77

October 25, 2023

Cynthia S. York, age 77, of Lititz, passed away on October 25, 2023, after a long battle with Merkel Cell Carcinoma. She was born in Meadville, PA, the daughter of James O.W. and Grace (Gehr) Shoemaker. Cynthia was the beloved wife of David A. York, with whom she shared 46 wonderful years of marriage.

A deep commitment to education and service marked Cynthia’s life. She graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Education. She became a dedicated teacher. Among others, she taught in both the Manheim Township and Cocalico school districts, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. In addition to her teaching career, she spent almost a decade working as a talented florist at Royer’s, as well as many years as a lab tech where she helped develop the yearly flu vaccine.

Later in life, she discovered Real Estate investment. After starting with one small investment, she went on to hold several of her own properties, where she also served as the property manager. This became her passion for more than 20 years.

A longtime Holy Trinity Lutheran Church member in Ephrata, Cynthia found solace and community in her faith. She had an amazing green thumb and loved flowers and plants in general. She was a woman of many interests and passions, including hiking, traveling, painting, and tending to her garden. She was also a long-time active member of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Cynthia is survived by her loving children: Genevieve Watycha, wife of Dan, of Lancaster; and Bryan Coe, husband of Nicole, of Lancaster. She is also survived by her step-children: Jamie York, wife of Steve Calamia, of Collegeville; and Jeffrey York, husband of Amy, of Pacific Palisades, CA. Cynthia’s older brother, James Noel Shoemaker of Elizabethtown, will fondly remember her. She leaves a legacy of love and wisdom to her cherished grandchildren: Aidan Watycha, Liam Coe, Anneliese Coe, Owen York, and Trevor York.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, November 13, 2023, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A Memorial Service will follow the visitation at 4:00 PM at the funeral home. The interment will be private.

The family kindly requests that donations, if one chooses, be made in Cynthia’s memory to Merkel Cell Carcinoma Research or the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Cynthia will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, and her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all.