Shirley V Offermann

Shirley V. Offermann (90), a Moravian Manor resident, passed away on October 7, 2026. Born in Hatboro, PA, Shirley was the daughter of Harold and Marion Vandegrift. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Walter H. Offermann. She is survived by a son, Robert Offermann, Springfield, PA, daughter Kathryn Markam (Glenn), Manlius, NY; grandchildren Erica Offermann, John and Kristi Markam and great granddaughter Grace Markam-Howard.

Raised in Glenside, a Philadelphia suburb, Shirley graduated from the Abington Township High School in 1954. Among her high school accomplishments, she was the sole girl drummer in the school orchestra and marching band. Shirley moved on to the University of Pennsylvania, completing the requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. She and Walt met at Penn and married in 1959 one year after their graduation.

Shirley began a general physical therapy career at the Episcopal Hospital in Philadelphia. Taking time off starting a family, Shirley resumed her career in 1969 at the Matheny School in Peapack, NJ. It was at Matheny that Shirley found her true calling in therapy, a concentration helping children with physical disabilities. Founded by Walter and Marguerite Matheny, the Matheny School was a unique residential facility primarily dedicated to the treatment of cerebral palsy in children. Her five years at Matheny were the happiest of her working years and she involved the entire family in activities at Matheny.

Moving to Lancaster in 1974 as a result of Walt's move with Armstrong, Shirley continued her focus on children with physical disabilities. She was the first therapist hired on staff by the Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13. Shirley spent eighteen years traveling to schools throughout Lancaster and Lebanon County assisting educators with children dealing with special physical needs. She retired in 1992.

Retirement offered the opportunity for travel, time at the shore, winters in Florida and community involvement. She and Walt took several trips to Europe. Summer vacations with family at Stone Harbor NJ offered memorable times for Shirley, who loved the beach and her family very much. For many years, winter months were spent at their home at The Vines in Estero, FL. Shirley was a member of Highland Presbyterian Church, serving as a Deacon and an active member of the Highland Quilters. She also served on the local University of Pennsylvania Secondary School Committee, meeting with students applying to the University. A longtime member of the Lancaster Country Club, golf was a favorite pastime.

A private service will be held at Highland Church Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Moravian Manor, 300 West Lemon Street, Lititz, PA 17543 or the Highland Presbyterian Church, 500 East Roseville Road, Lancaster, PA 17601.