Josephine Mary Synstelien

Josephine Mary Synstelien, a lifelong San Pedro resident, passed away peacefully into the arms of the Lord on September 18, 2017. She was born August 16, 1935 to Nick and Angelina Grieco, and she was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Cortlyn, her daughter Julie, her grandson Jesse, her sister Antonette Grieco, and her brothers Rocky and Aniello Grieco. Josephine is survived by her daughter Linda Thiedeman, sons: Jerry, Jimmy, and Johnny (Sue) Synstelien, her loving sister Joy (Richard) Rackemann, brother-in-law David (Kathy) Synstelien and sister-in-law Ardis Synstelien. Josephine had ten adoring grandchildren: Danell, Brian, Matthew, Steven, Lynn, Sara, Samuel, Nicholas, Courtney and Shereese and six great grandchildren: Ava, Gia, Mattie, Scarlet, Vesper and Wyatt. Josephine attended 15th Street School, Dana Jr. High School, and San Pedro High School (Class of S1953). After graduation she married the love of her life and together they raised five children in San Pedro. Josephine devoted her life to her children, church and community. She spent many happy years assisting with PTA, the Italian Catholic Federation, The St. Anne’s Society, Bloch Field, and many other civic events. Josephine was a humble woman with many talents, among them was recreational sewing. She personalized her Raggedy Ann/Andy dolls for many children, not just her own. She also enjoyed quilting and spending countless hours with her quilting sorority. They met for many, many years. Josephine excelled with ceramics. She had her own kiln and designed many ceramics for her family and friends. Josephine found passion in the rhythms she created at the piano. She found much satisfaction testing the ivory keys. She often entertained her children and grandchildren with her gift of music. Josephine found enjoyment in simple things: a day at the beach, a meal with friends, a walk on Paseo, an hour in church, or sharing a cup of coffee on her Catalina view deck. Josephine was a strong woman who had a gift for encouraging others. And for relaxation she looked no further than her own backyard where she often entertained. She loved to cook and bake for her family and friends. Her Italian heritage was evident in her culinary dishes. Josephine will always be remembered for making her home a safe, warm and happy place for all. Her family is forever grateful for the loving, compassionate care she received from her home care nurses Mary and Rosaline. Service will be held at Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel on Wednesday September 27, at 9:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your charity of choice.