Kathleen Derfler

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 Masters Degree in International Affairs from Chapman University in1982, and her Doctorate in Education degree, Ed.D. at La Sierra University 2002. Kathy also served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor August 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 is 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, CA, and Jim Derfler, Jr. and wife Janie of San Diego, CA.; a sister Arline Ramon and sons Gavin and Grayson of Mansfield, TX,

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.