Marian K. Schmickle

Marian K. Schmickle, 89, of Allentown PA, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025 at Luther Crest Senior Living. She was the loving wife of the late William A. Schmickle, her soulmate with whom she shared over 60 years of life, 55 years of marriage, and a birthdate, January 15th. Born in Glenolden, PA, she was the daughter of the late Paul F. and Gladys E. (Gauger) Kircher. Marian was a professionally trained singer and soprano soloist in choirs and churches around Philadelphia, and in Florida in retirement. She and Bill were members of Christ Lutheran Church in Oreland, and both sang in the choir and served in many roles in the congregation. Weathering many challenges, Marian earned her AA Degree in Human Services and worked supporting troubled youths at Wordsworth Academy in Fort Washington PA for 18 years. She also served as a board member and board president of COPE Services, making a difference for many living with mental illness. After raising their family in Oreland, PA, She and Bill became snowbirds and summered in Marmora NJ and lived in Osprey, FL for 15 wonderful years. Anything that bloomed would thrive for Marian and she loved growing African Violets and Orchids for many years. Her passion for all animals included many dear cats, dogs, guinea pigs, hermit crabs, a bird, and one Snail. Marian surrounded herself with simple and beautiful things. She collected Owls, Dolls, Paperdolls, as well as Books and Figurines featuring Birds, Cats, and Flowers. Her largest collection was over 75 Nutcrackers. She loved to knit cardigan sweaters and was proud to have made over 100 of them, most as gifts. Marian’s kindness, gentle spirit, and sense of fun endeared her to all who got to know her. Her time living at Luther Crest was very happy and the friends she made there were dear to her, along with the dedicated and loving staff in both Personal Care and Memory Support. They made a difference in her quality of life which went above and beyond. Living on in her love, Children: Carole M. Silvoy and her husband Richard of Allentown, William P. Schmickle of Fleetwood, Michael A. Schmickle and his wife Maureen of Horsham and, Granddaughter: Lauren Mason and her husband Luke of Skippack and Great-Grandchildren: Myles Christian and Ellie Marie. She is lovingly remembered by Sister-in-Law Karen R. Kircher, and like-a-daughter Lynda O’Neill, dear nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as many friends both near and far. She was predeceased by her siblings, Nancy K. Priestly, C.T. “Buzz” Kircher, and Paul F. “Butch” Kircher Jr. A celebration of Marian’s life is to be determined. To celebrate her best each day please give love to your pets and appreciate all the creatures around us. Marian adored flowers, but in lieu of them please consider contributing in her memory to: The World Wildlife Fund 1250 Twenty-Fourth Street, N.W. P.O. Box 97180 Washington, DC 20090-7180; or The Benevolent Care Fund at Luther Crest 800 Hausman Road Allentown, PA 18104