Patricia A. "Pat" Derhammer, 88, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at Country Meadows in Bethlehem, PA. She was the beloved wife of the late Richard Derhammer, with whom she shared 46 years of marriage until his passing in 2003. Born in Allentown, Patricia was the daughter of the late Karl and Emily (Wallander) Schanbacher.
She is survived by her loving sons: Corey (fiancée Esther) of Northampton, PA, Steven (wife Michelle) of Whitehall, PA, Matthew of Alexandria, VA, and Thomas (wife Shari) of Northampton, PA. She was the proud grandmother of Chad (wife Christine), Lauren (husband Andrew), Marc, and Cole (wife Morgyn), along with cherished great-grandmother to Bryce, Clara, Maya, Miles and Christian.
Patricia was a 1955 graduate of William Allen High School. She began her career with Bell Telephone Company and later, after her four children were all school age, she worked as a secretary for St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fullerton until her retirement.
She lived a full and vibrant life, enriched by many interests and talents. Patricia loved to travel, especially enjoying cruises that allowed her to explore new places while surrounded by family and friends. She had a deep affection for the beach and found great joy in time spent by the water. Known for her warm sense of humor and quick wit, she brought laughter and lightheartedness to those around her. Her hobbies included painting, skiing, golfing, and playing several musical instruments. She also treasured fishing and crabbing alongside her husband. Over the years, Patricia taught Sunday school and volunteered in after-school programs, always giving generously of her time and care to others.
Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that Patricia lived a full and meaningful life, rich in love, laughter, and purpose. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.
Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of one's choice.
The Gilbert Funeral Home of Whitehall
is honored to handle her arrangements
She is survived by her loving sons: Corey (fiancée Esther) of Northampton, PA, Steven (wife Michelle) of Whitehall, PA, Matthew of Alexandria, VA, and Thomas (wife Shari) of Northampton, PA. She was the proud grandmother of Chad (wife Christine), Lauren (husband Andrew), Marc, and Cole (wife Morgyn), along with cherished great-grandmother to Bryce, Clara, Maya, Miles and Christian.
Patricia was a 1955 graduate of William Allen High School. She began her career with Bell Telephone Company and later, after her four children were all school age, she worked as a secretary for St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fullerton until her retirement.
She lived a full and vibrant life, enriched by many interests and talents. Patricia loved to travel, especially enjoying cruises that allowed her to explore new places while surrounded by family and friends. She had a deep affection for the beach and found great joy in time spent by the water. Known for her warm sense of humor and quick wit, she brought laughter and lightheartedness to those around her. Her hobbies included painting, skiing, golfing, and playing several musical instruments. She also treasured fishing and crabbing alongside her husband. Over the years, Patricia taught Sunday school and volunteered in after-school programs, always giving generously of her time and care to others.
Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that Patricia lived a full and meaningful life, rich in love, laughter, and purpose. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.
Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of one's choice.
The Gilbert Funeral Home of Whitehall
is honored to handle her arrangements
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Patricia A. Derhammer (Schanbacher), please visit our flower store.
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