Obituaries

JoAnn T. Castello, 78

January 15, 2024

JoAnn T. Castello, 78, of Mount Joy, entered into her heavenly reward January 15, 2024 at Hospice & Community Care surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Brownsville, PA she was the daughter of the late Harry C. and Elsie J. (Pokorney) Thompson. She was the loving wife of Robert E. Castello, with whom she shared 50 wonderful years of marriage.

A graduate of Brownsville High School, JoAnn went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) as well as a Master’s Degree from the University of Maryland. JoAnn spent a 28-year career as a Home Economics Teacher. She spent 18 of those years at Donegal High School, where she was lovingly known as “Mrs. C”. She pioneered the preschool program there and inspired many students to pursue careers in Education and Culinary Arts. She spent her retirement years serving as an Early Childhood adjunct instructor at Harrisburg Area Community College and volunteering at Hospice & Community Care in Mount Joy.

She loved to cook, entertain, dance and travel. JoAnn was deeply connected with Coterie for 45 years, serving as head of the Gourmet Group and later as the Chair of the Wine Tasting Group. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lancaster for 48 years.

Some of her happiest times were spent cheering on the Penn State Football team singing “Sweet Caroline” in the stands. She especially valued the quality time that she spent creating memories with her granddaughter and grandson.

In addition to her husband, JoAnn is survived by her daughter, Lindsay C. (wife of Patrick Heth) of Manheim; her two beloved grandchildren, Camryn and Colin, and her brother, Gregg C. Thompson (husband of Eileen Marhefka).

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, January 25, 2024 from 5:30-7:30PM at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home located at 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA. Visitation with the family will also be on Friday, January 26, 2024 from 10:00-11:00AM at Mary Mother of the Church located at 625 Union School Road, Mount Joy, PA 17552. A service will follow at 11:00 AM in the church; the service will be live -streamed at https://marymotherparish.org/live-stream-page.

Contributions may be made to the Mary Mother of the Church at the above address or Lancaster County Field of Hope, 4338 Fairview Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Dr. Scott Silverstein of WellSpan Pulmonary and Dr. Matthew Beelen of Penn Medicine Geriatrics for their excellent care.

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Condolences to the Family

March 14, 2024

Mrs. Castello was an exceptional woman and wonderful teacher. I loved her so much that I not only had culinary arts with her but continued to take her preschool class and became her culinary teachers assistant when I had taken all of the classes Donegal had to offer that she taught (also still have so many recipes that she gave me). I was set on going to PA Culinary when she approached me with a JWU application and told me to go for it even though I thought the school was unattainable for me. Well I got in, graduated with a Bachelors degree and met my husband of 20 years and life long friends that have changed my life.  She was stern but had a fun side. She forced you to do your best and pushed you to work hard. I dedicate a lot to her of how I ended up today. She will forever be in my heart and one of the greatest teachers I’ve ever had. There needs to be more teachers like her. Mrs. Castello you’ll be forever missed and forever in my heart. Thank you so much for everything! Catherine Penrose

February 13, 2024

Sorry to hear about your loss. My dad just called today  2-13 to let me know.  Peace to you and your family. Ashleigh and John Ruppel

January 26, 2024

My Dear Bob,Lindsey and Family
Your losss is my loss as Joanne your Mother was part of our family. We loved her so very much and certainly appreciated all the wonderful meals she would provide for us and other friends. On trips to Penn State or our cruise to Alaska she was so much fun. She is now at peace with Marna and other friends and family bit she will never be forgoten.
I will miss her terribly but do know that she is in heaven and at peace
Love 
Mike

January 25, 2024

I really appreciated all of the wonderful things you wrote about JoAnn in her tribute. I can’t think of a kinder person I have run into over my time as a physician. It was so apparent to me how loved she was and how much love she gave to her family. I am deeply sorry for your  loss. 
Scott Silverstein

January 22, 2024

Many thoughts and prayers to JoAnn’s family & friends. I have & will continue to miss sharing stories & talking about books & recipes with JoAnn.  I feel like I know her grandchildren, as, she spoke of them so often with so much love.  JoAnn was a Lady with poise & class. She will be greatly missed at Hospice where she volunteered. Rest in peace lovely JoAnn. 
Susan

January 22, 2024

Dear Castello Family,
 
I was sorry to hear of JoAnn’s passing.  She was my Donegal colleague, who spearheaded our Family and Consumer Science Department.  She impacted the lives of many students and the children in her preschool program.  A powerhouse with a great sense of humor, Joann lead our department with professionalism and grace.  I remember her being a great cook, always smiling and up for a good laugh.  Despite a daunting teaching schedule, she offered her talents to the school graduation, participated in the faculty musical, and, I am sure, much more.  She has left the world better than she found it in ways she probably never knew.  As you celebrate Joann’s beautiful life, I am thinking of you and hope the good memories bring you comfort.  
 
Jean B. Gerdes

January 22, 2024

Joanne was an amazing smart and kind lady. She always made people feel special when she was around them.  I enjoyed knowing Joanne and looked forward to visiting her home when she hosted events.  She and her husband were always excellent hosts and very welcoming.  So many talents in one sweet lady.  She will be missed greatly. LaTrelle Renaud 
 

January 21, 2024

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Joann was a dear friend and will remain in our hearts forever.
Frank and Marie Bosley

January 21, 2024

Dear Bob,
Doug and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and Lindsay. Though we didn’t know JoAnn personally very well, every time someone compliments us on our beautifully appointed kitchen at 808 Colony, Doug and I share the story of her life as a home economist, and her love for cooking and baking.  It’s because of her joy and vision that we get to enjoy creating wonderful delights — “in the kitchen JoAnn Castello designed.”  (And we’re sure she did so with great love.)
May all of your wonderful memories with JoAnn bring you peace during these difficult days. 
Kris and Doug Albert 

January 19, 2024

It was with great sadness that we learned of JoAnn’s passing. She will be missed, not only by her loving husband and family, but by the entire community of Four Seasons where she was an active member. My heartfelt condolences to the family for their loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. 
Jere and Nancy Frederick

Visitation
Thursday, January 25, 2024
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
3110 Lititz Pike
Lititz, PA 17543
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Visitation
Friday, January 26, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Mary Mother of the Church
625 Union School Road
Mount Joy, PA 17552
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Services
Friday, January 26, 2024
11:00 AM
Mary Mother of the Church
625 Union School Rd
Mount Joy, PA 17552
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