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 .