Obituary of Kathleen Olivia Pfaendtner

On April 21, 2025 Kathleen Olivia Scanlin Pfaendtner died peacefully surrounded by her loving family after a long courageous battle with cancer. The youngest of 7, Kathy was born in Bristol, Pennsylvania on August 3, 1966 to John Joseph Scanlin and Helen Marie nee Schrotz. She was 58.

A graduate of Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and a member of the Women’s Rowing Team, Kathy spent her professional career as a skilled speech and language pathologist serving patients in the Minneapolis area.

Always brave, adventurous and outgoing, Kathy achieved her first wings with ASEL certification which qualified her to fly a single engine aircraft. She went on to solo backpack through Europe utilizing work to stay in hostels as she shared laughter with those she met along the way. She volunteered teaching English as a Second Language to immigrants from around the world.

Her crowning achievement was being a devoted mother and homemaker to her children Olivia, Helene, and Luke. Together with her children, Kathy enjoyed traveling adventures both at home and abroad. Sewing, baking, dancing and gardening were hobbies that brought her much joy.

Kathy is survived by her brothers Dennis [Charlene], John [Lorraine], Timothy [Maureen] and her sisters Susan Elrath [Richard], Marie Slovich, and Patricia Orwig [Robert] , along with many nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly as the coolest Aunt.

In memory of Kathy, her family requests that donations be made to Saint Joan of Arc Outreach Fund or the Mayo Clinic.