Dr. M. Jean Oertel, and longtime, well-respected psychologist in Plymouth, died peacefully April 22 from complications of a stroke. She was 81.
Born in Wilkinsburg, PA, and raised in Penn Hills, PA, she lived for the last 26 years in Plymouth, enjoying kayaking, skydiving, traveling, and functions with family and friends. She was a clinical psychologist with a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in New England.
Her family and friends remember her as a vibrant woman with a kind spirit who embraced life and stayed connected with those she loved dating back to grade school. She was a passionate PGH sports fan, mostly her beloved Pirates and an avid animal lover of indoor pets and wildlife.
She is survived by “Big Sister” Isabell J. Harajda (Sanne); Marisa Jean Harajda (Jeannie), niece, spouse James R. Pfeiffer; W. David Harajda, nephew, spouse Lisa Harajda; the “Great” Aunt Jean of Madilyn Harajda, great-niece, and Emily Harajda, great-niece. Fur Mom to Fiona and numerous cats. She is preceded in death by her parents, Isabell and Byron Oertel; brother-in-law, William Harajda; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A celebration of her life is set for 2 p.m. May 23 at First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Plymouth, 12 Church St., Plymouth with a receiving line to follow. Due to her Scottish heritage, please wear something plaid or a cat-themed item of clothing. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local animal shelter or bring a can of cat food or a cat supply to the service.
For more info and to sign the online guestbook please visit www.cartmelldavis.com