Kathleen T. Schroeder

Surrounded by her friends, family, and fiancé, Kathleen T. Schroeder passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Born in Philadelphia on September 26, 1960, to Elizabeth J. (Kane) Schroeder of Royersford and the late William X. Schroeder, Kathy lived a life of boundless curiosity and unmitigated love and joy, even when faced with challenge and loss.

Kathy had a varied career working at the New Jersey Law Review and also spent many years at Rodale, Inc. To each employer she displayed her intelligence, integrity, and determination to learn the job and excel in her role. Most recently, she served others as a caseworker in the PA Department of Human Services, helping clients access needed services and safeguarding public trust.

Outgoing and fascinated by all people, Kathy was a member of the Jefferson Democratic Club and the North End Wanderers Athletic Association where she formed many lasting friendships. As one of the "Marys," Kathy enjoyed outings to the mountains and beach, as well as many local festivals and parties with her close group of friends. Her zest for life made her always ready for a new venture.

As a person, Kathy was especially kind, open and non-judgemental, which made her a mentor, friend and trusted confidant to many people whose lives she touched, even if for a short time. However, she especially doted on her step-grandson Michael who will forever hold a special place in her heart.

In addition to impacting the lives of others, Kathy had a warm spot in her heart for her beloved animals whom she rescued: Pudge, a pug; Spike, a Japanese Chin; and Skye, a kitty Spike found under her deck. She will also be missed tremendously by Dallas "Dally-girl" and Rippy. 

Her family, friends, colleagues, and all the many people fortunate to know and love her will miss her, but she will abide forever in our hearts and fond memories.

Kathy will be greatly missed by her mother; fiancé Francis Gotzon; siblings Elizabeth C. Banfield of Riverview, FL, Jane C. (David M.) Krmpotich of Conshohocken, and William C. Schroeder of Royersford; her step-daughter Katie E. Shaton and step-grandson Michael Passalugo of Bethlehem; and her nieces and nephews Robert, Jennifer, Matthew, Sarah, David, and Trevor, to whom Kathy was the "cool aunt." She was met in the loving arms of those who passed before her, including her father, her long-time partner John J. Shaton, her nephew Steven Banfield, and her grandparents.

Friends and family are invited to her visitation 10:00 am-12:00 pm Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem, followed by a prayer service at 12:00 pm. The inurnment will be held privately. Online condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Peaceable Kingdom, 1049 MacArthur Road, P.O. Box 424, Whitehall, PA 18052 (www.lvpeaceablekingdom.info) or The Sanctuary at Haafsville, P.O. Box 921, Fogelsville, PA 18051 (www.thesanctuarypa.org)