Jean M. Bierbower

Jean M. Bierbower Jean M. Bierbower, 73, of West Lawn, passed away March 21, 2021 at 11:50 AM in the Reading Hospital where she was a patient since March 10th. Born in Reading, she was a daughter of the late Robert and Marie (Guenther) Bierbower. Jean played softball and basketball for Governor Mifflin and was co-captain and all county on both. She was the outstanding female athlete and foreign language student at graduation. She went on to play basketball and volleyball for Kutztown State College. Her undergraduate work was done at the University of Puerto Rico and was a graduate of Kutztown State College with a B.S. degree in Secondary Education (English/Communications, Comprehensive Social Studies, Spanish, and Safety Education). Her graduate work was done at Penn State University in Sports Administration. Jean was employed by the Muhlenberg School District from 1970 as a secondary English teacher, career education teacher, and Graduation Project Coordinator until her retirement in 2003. While at Muhlenberg, she coached varsity girls’ basketball, varsity girls’ softball (county championship in 1973), varsity girls’ track & field, and junior high boys & girls track & field. While coaching, there were many team members who placed in Districts and States. Ms. B was Class Advisor of the Class of 1992, whom she thought of as her own kids! She was a Reading Playground Leader for four years, 1967-1970, Joseph Lee, Lauer’s Park, Oakbrook Housing, and Reading Iron. Jean was a member & officer of the Muhlenberg Education Association, Pennsylvania State Education Association, National Education Association, National Historic Trust Preservation Society, Daughters of American Revolution, PASR, and the Berks County Association of School Retirees. She was an Outreach Sponsor and Coordinator for five US Military Academies – USCGA, USMMA, USNA, USMA, USAFA – placing more than 50 young men and women in service academies. She was a Philadelphia sports fan – Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. Jean enjoyed vacationing in Maine, tall ships, windjammers, fishing trips with friends, hot air balloons, loving pets, teaching and coaching kids, and working on family tree. She was truly an inspiration to all her knew her and will be greatly missed by all. She is survived by her siblings – Judy A. Armstrong-Moyer, Wyomissing, Jeffrey R. husband of Regina Bierbower, Lancaster, Kim M. wife of Guy Aquila, Sinking Spring, five Nieces – Stacy, Stefanie, Michelle, Kristen, Breanne, 4 Nephews - Steven, Michael, Robert, Daniel and 12 great Nieces & great Nephews. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her sister Lynne C. McCarty in 2009. Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, March 27, 2021 from 3:00-5:00 PM at Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., One East Lancaster Avenue, Shillington. It was Jean’s request that flowers not be sent, rather to honor her memory by making contributions to the Animal Rescue League, 58, Kennel Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508. www.kleefuneralhome.com