John Diefenderfer

John Philip Diefenderfer of Phoenixville, Pa., died on November 22, 2018, after a long illness. He was 80 years old. Born in Palmerton, Pa., John was a graduate of Admiral Farragut Academy and The Wharton School. After serving as an officer in the U.S. Navy, he earned his Juris Doctorate from Temple University Law School. He practiced civil law at Stuckert & Yates in Newtown, Pa., for nearly 30 years before starting a private practice in Lake Ariel, Pa. After retiring, he divided his time between his home in Phoenixville and his beloved cabin in Lake Ariel, where he enjoyed sailing, hunting, and painting. In 2014, his paintings were exhibited at the Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center. In 2016 his book Schriesheim to Pennsylvania Pioneers was published by the Pennsylvania German Society. John was a 32nd Degree F&AM. He attended Salem Lodge #330 in Hamlin, Pa., and was a past member of Newtown Lodge #427. He is survived by his four children, Lisa Hegg of Devon, Pa.; Hans Diefenderfer of Philadelphia; Laura Rose of Southampton, Pa.; and Karl Diefenderfer of Quakertown, Pa. He will be missed by his eight grandchildren, Geoffrey, Daniel, and Sarah Hegg; Eric and Amy Diefenderfer; Jacqueline Rose; and Ashley and Kristina Diefenderfer. His children invite friends, colleagues and loved ones to a Visitation from 10 to 11:00 AM at Lower Bucks Masonic Hall, Newtown Lodge #427, Heacock Rd., Yardley, PA 19067 on January 12, 2019. A Memorial and Masonic Service will begin at 11:00 AM.