Kathryn Lichman Schlachter
OBITUARY
Kathryn M. Lichman Schlachter of Zionsville, PA, formerly of Allentown, passed away May 6th at Lehigh Valley Hospice, surrounded by her loving family. Kathryn was born at home on December 29, 1928. She was the only child of the late Bernard J. and Kathryn M. (Derr) Matthews.
She was predeceased by her first husband of 43 years, Michael G. Lichman Jr., and her second husband of 17 years, Joseph M. Schlachter.
Kathryn is survived by her sons, Michael (Christine), Matthew (Janna), Timothy (Melissa), and Joseph (Karen), and daughters, Sharon (Paul Ulicny), Yvonne (Ralph Cardamone), and Cynthia (Eric Joyner).
She is also predeceased by daughters Kathryn and Bernadette Lichman, Mary Jane (James Beck), and grandson Matthew B. Lichman.
Kathryn was blessed to have 24 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School in 1946. She enjoyed playing trombone in the band, jazz band, and orchestra. She also worked on the reunion committee of her class until their last reunion, the 70th in 2016.
Kathryn retired from the former Western Electric in Allentown after 23 years as an inspector in the Bell Telephone Division. Previous jobs included working in the shoe department of Zollingers, the beginning of her love of shoes, nurse’s aid at Sacred Heart Hospital, Home Interiors, and General Electric.
She was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Emmaus, where she also served as an usher for many years.
Kathryn enjoyed many interests, including singing and dancing with the “Sweet Adelines” for 18 years, even sewing her own costumes, baking, especially kiffles, reading Amish books, and crocheting. She also enjoyed trips to the casino and cheering for her favorite team, the Eagles.
Her memory was incredible, which you would know if you listened to any one of her interesting stories, which she loved to share.
As busy as Kathryn was, working and raising 9 children, she always had time to help others more than you would know. She was an inspiration to many of us and has left a legacy of love, kindness, and stories for her family and all who knew her.
Services: Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 AM Monday, May 11, 2026 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 415 S. 6th Street, Emmaus. Viewings will be held from 2-5 PM Sunday and 9-10:30 AM Monday at Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, 17th & Hamilton Streets, Allentown. Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery, Emmaus. www.BKRFH.com
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Carmelite Monastery, 3551 Lanark Road, Coopersburg, PA 18036.