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Kathleen Derfler Obituary
Dr. Kathleen Derfler, age 63, of Erie, passed away unexpectedly, on May 7, 2016, of natural causes.
She was born on January 19, 1953, in Monongahela, Pa., and lived in the early and latter parts of her life in Erie.
Kathy was a graduate of McDowell High School, class of 1970. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Edinboro University in 1974, a Master's degree in International Affairs from Chapman University in 1982, and her Doctorate in Education degree, Ed.D. at La Sierra University in 2002. Kathy also served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor August from 1998-2011. Following a teaching career in Palm Spring, she returned to Erie to retire and taught school as a substitute teacher for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie.
Kathy was preceded in death by her beloved father Jim Derfler, Sr.; and her sister Peggy Derfler.
She is survived by her mother Posie Derfler; two brothers: Tom Derfler of Danville, Calif., and Jim Derfler, Jr. and wife Janie of San Diego, Calif.; a sister Arline Ramon; and sons: Gavin and Grayson of Mansfield, Texas.
Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 W. 26th Street, on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. and are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Jude the Apostle Church, 2801 W. 6th St., with Rev. John Detisch and Msgr. Casimir A. Bogniak celebrants. Burial will be in Monongahela Cemetery. Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kathleen Derfler
janet calabrese
August 4, 2016
Oh I just found out about Kathy from my
brother Donald Calabrese. I have known her
since she was a teenager. You have my thoughts and prayers..janet Calabrese
Cyndy Jones
May 21, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Kathy's passing. I enjoyed working with Kathy and enjoyed some hysterical times sharing stories. Kathy was sweet, kind, funny, and smart. Her family is in my prayers. She will be missed!
Marie Smith
May 19, 2016
Kathy was married at one time to my brother, Tony. I will always remember her smiling face. My sympathy to all the family and friends, I know she will be dearly missed.
Margy Calil
May 16, 2016
To the Family of Kathy Derfler: Kathy was my mentor and coach. She helped me pass the comps for my Master's at UMASS. During this process we became friends and I was sorry to have her move away to Erie. I wish to extend my condolences for this tragic occasion. I will miss Kathy's sweet voice and her kindness.
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Mary Brookhouser
May 14, 2016
Jim, I am shocked and saddened by Kathys passing. I'm sorry I'm unable to attend her service as I'm out of town. My prayers are with your family.
Becky Birch
May 14, 2016
Kathy and I received our doctorate together. We were good friends before the program, and even closer afterwards. She was always Dr. Derf to me. Kathy was such a beauty inside and out, a truly fantastic lady! My sincere condolences to her family. You are in my prayers.
May 13, 2016
To Jim and all the family, so saddened to hear of Kathy's passing. Knowing she was back in Erie I had hoped to meet up with her again. Memories of hours of reading Nancy Drew books as kids are on my mind. My sympathies to you all.
Kathy Thiemann Gaab
Joyce & Paul Blickley
May 13, 2016
Jim,
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. May your sister Kathy rest in eternal peace.
Ed Lind
May 13, 2016
Was sad to hear of Kathy's passing. She had a great personality and was kind. May she rest in peace.
Patty Brandon, Tomczak
May 13, 2016
Kathy and I were classmates at McDowell High School. She was such a stunning beauty inside and out. Such a kind and gentle soul to all. My condolences to her family. May Kathy Rest in Peace. Praying for all of you.
Colleen McCarthy
May 13, 2016
I remember Kathy from Lake Shore pool, and I swam with her sister, Peggy - I have many great memories of those days and I want to express my condolences to the Derfler family on this loss ...
kc kiner
May 12, 2016
God threw the mold away when he made Kathaaay!!! What a fabulous woman and great friend. We had more fun than anyone should be allowed and I will cherish the memories.
Brent Lethaby
May 12, 2016
My sincere condolences to your family. I was amazed to read of Kathy's passing. She was a vibrant and caring person who could come up with some unanswerable quips and comments. She easily endeared herself to others. The memories of her great successes will be on the minds of the many she touched. Former McDowell High classmate...
May 12, 2016
RIP Kathy!
Phil & Stacey Chase
May 12, 2016
Arline and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers will be with you.
Jan Kidder
May 12, 2016
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Kathy's family. She made it to several McDowell class reunions and was recognized for her scholastic achievements. Her bright welcoming smile will be missed.
Darcy Patton-Matson
May 12, 2016
Arline and family: I am deeply saddened that you have lost Kathy. A life cut short way too early. May she find peace. My prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
Sharon Daly
May 12, 2016
Dear Derfler Family,
I am sending my sincere condolences long distance because I cannot be there to say goodbye to another classmate of 1970.
I am saddened to see that Kathy has passed away.
I remember her smiling face and funny personality.
May she rest in peace.
Cherish her memories!
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