Geraldine Grace Knoll, affectionately known as "Gerry", 91, peacefully departed from this world on November 13, 2023 at Lancaster General Hospital, surrounded by her beloved family.  Left to cherish her memory are her two children, Richard "Scott" Knoll and Anne Howe (Royce), her four grandchildren: Jill Riccio (Dave), Michael Hendricks (Lauren), Zachary Hendricks (Brianna), Megan Knoll (Anthony Adamucci), as well as her eight great-grandchildren: Julianna, Jordanna, Jaclyn, Evan, Caroline, Bryn, Grace, and Joey.

Born in West Reading, she spent her formative years in Fivepointville, Lancaster County, as the cherished daughter of Chester and Grace Sprecher.  Her family later moved to Fleetwood, where her father and brothers established Sprecher Meats.  It was in Fleetwood that Gerry met and married the love of her life, Richard Knoll, fondly known as "Joe" and started her family.

While Gerry's exceptional intellect earned her the title of salutatorian of her graduating high school class, Gerry's paramount devotion was always to her family.  Her commitment to her husband, Joe, was marked by a fierce love that formed the foundation of their, in Gerry's words, "wonderful life". Gerry's life was centered around nurturing her husband, Joe, and supporting her children and grandchildren. Gerry lovingly attended to Joe's needs, ensuring dinner was on the table every evening at 5:30 p.m. sharp as he returned home from work.

Together, they enjoyed exploring all the corners of the world.  They particularly loved their trips to Ecuador and the Holy Lands where they immersed themselves in diverse culture and brought back unforgettable stories of their journeys.  As her family grew, Gerry enjoyed taking family trips to Rehoboth Beach during the summer months.  There, her knack for flounder-fishing almost all-but-guaranteed that she would catch the first fish during boating outings, an accomplishment she took great pride in, especially amongst the family's "seasoned" fisherman.  Summer nights were spent around the kitchen table playing, and beating, her family at Gin Rummy.  Based on how often she won, her family is still convinced she cheated.

Gerry exemplified motherhood naturally and effortlessly.  She possessed an innate ability to nurture not just her own children, but also her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The warmth of her love could be felt by each generation and all who set foot in her home; her grandchildren recalling each craft project she patiently helped them build, her friends treasuring late-night poker matches around the kitchen table, and Anne and Scott's childhood friends cherishing her morning French Toast after sleepovers.

She actively participated in Anne and Scott's life, never missing Scott's athletic competitions or Anne's school events.  She found immense joy in hosting family gatherings, often preparing her critically acclaimed Chicken Pot Pie dinners and baking Christmas cookies with the younger generations.

Her nurturing spirit extended to her passions and hobbies.  In Harleysville, she spent her time tending to her beautiful perennial garden in her backyard.  Her green thumb had a natural talent for bringing even the most hopeless houseplants back to life – a true labor of love.

Gerry was a gentle force. In her quiet demeanor, she spoke volumes about the importance of family, faith, and friendship.  Gerry's faith was a pillar in her life, providing her strength and solace, particularly after Joe's passing.  Joe's passing left a hole in Gerry's heart that could not be filled, yet she carried on with the quiet strength that defined her character.  Her unwavering faith remained an inspiration, particularly in her final moments, as she expressed her longing to reunite with Joe in heaven. Her family believes her wish was fulfilled.

Gerry was her family's guiding light.  They will carry her spirit in their hearts always and in all ways.  And "oh my word", how they will miss her.  Just as she has prepared countless tables here on earth, it is now time for the table to be lovingly prepared for her in heaven above.

A memorial service celebrating Gerry's life will be held at St Paul's United Church of Christ in Fleetwood on Friday November 24, 2023 beginning with visitation at 1:00 p.m. with service to follow at 1:30 p.m.  A luncheon will follow the service in the church's social hall.  All are welcome to attend.

Memorial contributions in Gerry's honor can be made to St. Paul's United Church of Christ at 5 West Arch Street, Fleetwood, PA 19522.