Pamela “Pam” Steckler, a dynamic businesswoman, beloved free spirit, and environmental activist, passed away on September 7th, 2024. Pam touched the hearts of all who knew her. Her untimely death has left her friends and family mourning a life lived with rare intensity and spirit.
Born in 1947, Pam grew up in an era of social upheaval, which shaped her worldview in profound ways. She embraced the free-spirited ideals of the 1960s and 1970s, and these values would remain central to who she was throughout her life. From a young age, she marched to the beat of her own drum, resisting societal pressures to conform, and instead choosing to explore a life filled with creativity, love, and an unyielding sense of purpose.
Pam graduated from Penn State in 1969 and lived in Fergusson Township for over 40 years, caring for her house, surrounding wildlife, and gardens with her partner, Bill Hechinger (1947-2022). In her 30’s, Pam founded her own business, a boutique clothing store that catered to those who, like her, refused to be defined by the ordinary. Her shop, Sunshine Imports (1972-2008), became more than just a business—it was a community hub where free thinkers, artists, political activists, environmentalists, and fashion enthusiasts could come together. Pam’s talent for curating unique, eclectic styles helped her store grow in popularity, but it was her warm, inclusive nature that made it a sanctuary for so many. Her everyday style of Bohemian dresses, Guatemalan huipils, Indonesian Ikat, Mud cloths, and Nigerian indigo tie dye, paired with layers of handmade jewelry will forever be ingrained in our memories.
Beyond her professional achievements, Pam was a true icon of community and love. She built her life around the principles of kindness, generosity, and openness. She believed in the power of human connection and was known for her ability to make everyone feel like they belonged. Whether through her business, her friendships, or her day-to-day interactions, her infectious smile, loveable laugh, and easygoing demeanor drew people in. She made sure that no one left her presence without feeling uplifted and educated.
Pam lived everyday as an environmentalist and socially responsible community activist. She worked hard to stop development and keep Ferguson’s space protected. Pam also facilitated, and succeeded, in a single-use plastics ban at the local Wegman’s supermarket. Pam was a member of multiple environmental groups, including the Sierra club, who she has advocated for decades. She had a deep concern for the health and welfare of the people and all living things. She wasn’t just a force OF nature, but also a force FOR nature.
Animals, especially her beloved cats, were a central part of Pam and Bill’s life. She was an animal lover through and through, adopting several rescue cats over the years who became her steadfast companions. Her cats were her family, and they were as much a part of her world as her human loved ones.
Pam is survived by her cats, Cinny and Bodhi, her cousins (Eileen, Debbie, Steven, Robin, and Melinda), and her entire community of friends.
Pam was laid to rest at Pine Hall Cemetery on September 10th, alongside Bill. She will be remembered always, and forever missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. In the words of Pam herself, “Live fully, love deeply, and always be true to who you are.” It is a sentiment that she carried with her in life, and it is the message that she leaves behind for all of us.