Obituaries
Diane C. Heisterkamp, 86
January 05, 2024
It is with sorrow we share the news that Diane C. Heisterkamp (Herman), 86, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania passed away on January 5, 2024. Born in Philadelphia on November 7, 1937, Diane was the eldest of David and Florence (Harvey) Herman’s four children. She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, David Herman and Vivian Wade, and, in 2012, her husband of 54 years, Dr. Charles A. Heisterkamp, III.
Raised in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Diane graduated from Bryn Mawr Hospital School of Nursing in 1958. A lifelong learner, she continued her formal studies focusing on counseling and mental health therapies. In 1985, she received a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University. In 2002, she graduated summa cum laude from La Salle University with a PhD in Psychology.
By the time Diane was 25, she was a registered nurse, world traveler, family chef, and the mother of five children. Diane’s greatest love was her family. She was devoted to her parents, husband, siblings, children, grandchildren, and extended family members, providing them steadfast love, patience, comfort and helpful advice. She treated the friends of her children as though they were part of her family.
Diane believed that the lives of young people were especially important and routinely offered them extra attention and support. She would engage children and growing teenagers in spirited and open-hearted conversation, often around her kitchen table. Neighborhood children came over just to visit with her. Later in life, many fondly called her “Grand D,” as in the “Grand Diane.”
Diane was continually involved with volunteer work including educational efforts at elementary schools, substitute teaching, parent education, promoting mediation, and working with law enforcement on youth issues. Her professional work included a staff position at Planned Parenthood of Lancaster. She was a dedicated and beloved psychotherapist in private practice for many decades until the time of her death.
She loved flowers, cooking, Hawaii, knitting, reading, and staying informed about current events. In all her endeavors, she relished connection, laughter, inclusion, and encouragement. Her joy in and wonder about the world was contagious. She was a delight, a confidante, a sage, and many times a hero.
Diane is survived by her children: Lisa Heisterkamp Davis (Joshua Davis), Laura Heisterkamp Scheff, Alex Heisterkamp (Valerie), David Heisterkamp, and Sachiko Smith (Joe Hoffard); grandchildren: Peter, Augusta, Bennett, Samantha, Dashiell, Ian, Nik, Isaac, Henry, Olivia, Tatiana, Andre, Onno; and great-grandson, Finn. She is also survived by her brother, Charles Herman.
A memorial service for Diane will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, January 28th at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, Pennsylvania. Family members will receive guests starting at 1:00 pm.
Our family is grateful to the Homestead Village staff and community members for their excellent care and loving friendship that surrounded Diane during her last years.
Diane will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery beside her husband, Charles, on a date to be determined. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Homestead Village Endowment Fund, Congregation Shaarai Shomayim, or Planned Parenthood Keystone.
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
February 13, 2024
My wife and I are eternally grateful for the advice and comfort Diane provided to my sister, her husband, and others in the Andrejev-Hoffard families. A life well lived.
Peter and Kris Andrejev
January 28, 2024
My fondest memory was when I was in my early teens, Mrs.H and I would have sincere conversations in the kitchen when I was having an overnight stay with Alex and Dave.She knew how and what to say to me that made me feel good inside. My sincere condolences and love to Alex,Dave and the Heisterkamp family. Keith Myer
January 24, 2024
It was such a pleasure taking care of Diane when she was at Landis Homes. God bless your family during this difficult time
Lana Flores
January 22, 2024
Dear Heisterkamp Family,
Sending love and light to you all. What a beautiful soul you had as a mother and grandmother or Grand D. We are sorry for your loss and will keep you close to our hearts as you navigate thse difficult times. With Love the McCoy Clan, Ann, Ken, Brenton and Ian.
January 19, 2024
Diane was unique and extraordinary woman…with many talents and and an open heart. Her Planned Parenthood educational programs provided new ideas and information about parenting. She was a friend and counselor. My sympathy to her family and all those who loved and respected her!
Nancy Osgood
January 16, 2024
Diane was a special woman who helped me tremendously. So wonderful to talk to and hear her wise words. Condolences to her family. She earned her wings many times over.
Amy Sullivan
January 14, 2024
Diane was an amazing person who helped me greatly through difficult times in my younger years. I will never forget her and am so sorry for this huge loss.
Heather McLeod
January 14, 2024
What an amazing life. She leaves an indelible memory and legacy of a person that had a life quest of unselfishly nurturing humanity. She inspired greatness in others. Your Dad also merits praise for all his great work improving and saving lives.
Peace and Love from The Lafferty Family
January 12, 2024
What a brilliant light this woman was for me in my difficult teen years! Always the voice of reason, I remember her wit, her laughter, her wisdom, and her warmth. I’m grateful beyond words to have known her.
Janell Conrad Rhee
January 12, 2024
The Heisterkamp’s have been a very important part of my life having grown up with David and Alex and spending many days of my youth at the Heisterkamp house. I will always remember Diane fondly for what a kind and generous soul she was. She was never without a smile and never seemed to mind the dozens of other kids that were perpetually present in her house. She lived a wonderful life full of adventure and touched many hearts along the way. My sincere condolences to the entire Heisterkamp family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dave Thornton
January 11, 2024
May she rest in peace. I loved all the stories she shared with me, every single time I spent with her I left with a smile on my face.
– Amber
January 10, 2024
To the Heistercamp Family,
My heartfelt condolences to all. If you spent just one minute with Grand D, as I knew her she put a smile on your face. She would always share a story with me and make me laugh. I will keep that memory of her. She definitely would not want you to be sad but remember something good you shared with her. She will be missed by many!❤️
Patti Heckman
January 10, 2024
I was definitely one of those “neighborhood children”. I spent many hours with Grand D, often around the kitchen table, and benefitted greatly from her wisdom, love, and support.
Daniel Orth
January 10, 2024
God called one of his most precious children home. When Doctor Diane hugged you, she hugged your soul. When she listened to you, she heard your spirit. Grand D was human connection personified.
My life was immeasurably enriched and likely saved by having known her.
Fly, dear Angel. Your wisdom lives on in the hearts of every one who knew you.
-Jason Shiflet
January 10, 2024
I am always telling people how fortunate I was to have a therapist right next door! She was a great listener and our kids were some of those neighborhood kids that loved talking with her. Rest in peace lovely Diane.
Sue Orth
- Services
- Sunday, January 28, 2024
- 2:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory
- 2421 Willow Street Pike
- Willow Street, PA 17584
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