Diane M. Brandstetter June 5, 1958 - April 4, 2025

Born in Hazleton, PA, Diane was the daughter of Mary (Racho) Drosdak of Allentown and the late John Drosdak. She graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School in 1976 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University. Diane spent 11 years working as a marketing specialist for AT&T before transitioning to a variety of roles as she balanced her professional life with raising her family.

Diane was a devoted member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Orefield, where she gave generously of her time, teaching CCD classes and helping to coach girls’ basketball. Her commitment to service extended beyond her church, as she also volunteered at the Allentown State Hospital, assisting patients with recreational activities until its closing. Diane’s unwavering dedication to her community and her selfless acts of kindness have left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.

Diane’s athletic journey is a testament to her dedication and passion. She first made her mark on the court as a basketball player for Allentown Central Catholic, where she was proudly inducted into the Rockne Wall of Fame as a member of the first Women’s State Championship Team. Her drive didn’t stop there; Diane transitioned into running, where she became an accomplished competitor, earning medals both in individual events and as part of the AT&T Corporate Cup Team. She also tackled a number of half marathons, and in her one and only marathon, she achieved the remarkable feat of running a qualifying time for the Boston Marathon. Diane was also an avid reader and a cherished member of several book clubs, where she found joy in sharing stories and connecting with others.

Her love for her family was immeasurable, and she found great pleasure in attending their activities and sporting events, always present and cheering them on. Diane lived life to the fullest, finding joy in the simple moments spent with family and friends. Though she is no longer with us, Diane’s spirit will forever remain in our hearts and memories, a lasting presence that continues to inspire and guide us.

Survivors: Husband, Al; Mother, Mary; Daughter: Amanda L. McMannis and her husband Andrew of Boca Raton, FL; Son: Andrew A. Brandstetter and his wife Brandi of Allentown; Granddaughter: Hailey A. McMannis; Brother: Ronald Drosdak of Allentown; Sister-in-Law: Leora Muschko and her husband Brian of Northampton; Brother-in-Law: Michael Brandstetter and his wife Sheri of Palmer Twp.

Services: A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am Friday, April 11, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 1879 Applewood Drive, Orefield 18069. There will be a visitation from 6 – 8 pm on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Stephens Funeral Home, Inc., 274 N. Krocks Rd., Allentown 18106. www.stephensfuneral.com

Contributions: St. Jude Children’s Hospital (stjude.org) or Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org)