Patricia Merola Heckman, 89, of Bethlehem, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026 at her home with her children by her side following a weekend surrounded by loved ones.

Born in the Nazareth home of her aunt on July 23, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Samuel E. Merola and the late Elizabeth W. (Wunderly). Pat attended Nazareth High School and married her middle school sweetheart, Harold K. Heckman, MD who passed away on January 7, 2025. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in October of 2024.

Pat received her B.S. in Medical Technology from Cedar Crest College in 1959. She worked as a Medical Lab Generalist, heading the Blood Bank Department at Nyack Hospital in Nyack, NY.

She also worked for Temple University Hospital’s Hematology Department in both the Nuclear and Radio Isotope Labs from 1960 -1964. Pat enjoyed many career roles including Accessory Designer with Transart and in 1987, earned her real estate license and worked as Sales Associate for Weichert Real Estate. She also enjoyed years as a Retail Sales Associate at Pat’s of Historic Bethlehem wrapping decadent gift packages with glamorous bows.

Pat loved meeting new people and being part of the community. She freely gave of her time as an Individualized Math Volunteer at Hanover Elementary School, was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader of two troops, and served on Board of Directors for Vitalistic Therapeutic School. She was a life long member of the Nazareth Moravian Church where she served as secretary for Board of Elders for 9 years, was a member of the Christian Education Committee and a Sunday School teacher. Pat was also a King’s Daughter, a member of the Lioness Club, and a volunteer with Moravian Hall Square Retirement Community. Patricia loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

She is survived by her son, Scott C. Heckman and his wife Georgine K. (Danyi) Heckman of Nazareth, daughter, Kara E. wife of James C. Neunzig of Sherman, CT, brother, Joseph C. L. Merola, MD and his wife BethAnn K. Merola of Old Saybrook, CT, grandchildren Meredith K. Heckman-Eid and her husband Pierre Eid, Lara G. Heckman, Elizabeth A. Neunzig, Gabrielle K. Neunzig, and Nicholas M. Neunzig,

and nieces, Jill M. Gerardo of State College, PA and Jenna M. Trotzer of Fairfield, CT. She is also survived by countless others including extended family and close friends, caregivers, service providers and many strangers who she engaged in conversations at check out lines at grocery stores, in restaurants, at Good Will and TJ Maxx. She was good counsel, mentor, and a compassionate listener to many. Patricia’s warmth, kindness and genuine care for the lives and life stories of others will continue as treasured memories.

Private services were held at the convenience of the family.

Pat shared her life with many beloved pets and is survived by her beloved feline, Penelope who was rescued 9 years ago. Concerned with compassionate treatment for all living creatures, contributions may be made to Forgotten Felines and Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, both in the care of Bartholomew-Schisler Funeral Home, 211 East Center Street, Nazareth, PA 18064.