Patricia Ann Steinbock

Patricia Ann (Biegler) Steinbock, 79, of Salem, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026 in her childhood home, surrounded by the family she spent her life nurturing. Her final moments were a reflection of her life: defined by profound support and the warmth of those she loved.

Known as Patty to her friends and Daka by her family, she was a true free spirit—full of heart, humor, and deep devotion to those around her. Patty never met a stranger. She had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and cared for, whether through a warm conversation, a shared laugh, or a simple act of kindness. Patty’s door was always open, and her table always had room for one more. If you were sick, struggling, or simply in need of comfort, Patty was the one who stepped in without hesitation.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: She was a master of cards—particularly cribbage, rummy, and pinochle—and a dedicated puzzle enthusiast who founded a family puzzle exchange. She loved gardening and canning the fruits of her labor, was a wonderful cook, and had an artsy soul that delighted in discovering beauty in overlooked treasures. She cherished trips to the library, attending Bible study, sharing stories from her childhood and finding humor in everyday moments.

Her greatest light was her family. As a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, she was a constant source of understanding, acceptance, laughter, and a steady supply of treats. Her faith guided her through every season of life, and she found lasting peace in the power of forgiveness.

Patty was a fighter. Her resilience through multiple battles with cancer was a testament to what she called her "sturdy stock." Even as illness challenged her, it never diminished her spirit. In the end, she chose to simply live—spending her remaining time surrounded by those she loved the most. Her home became a revolving door of visitors, with family and friends showing up for her just as she had always shown up for them.

She is survived by her husband and love of her life, Steven Scharer, her daughter Theresa Johns and her husband Al, her sons Michael Steinbock his wife Robin Mickle Myers and Richard Steinbock and his wife Cathy Long, her stepsons Curt Scharer and his wife Miriam and Craig Scharer and his wife Marissa, her beloved grandchildren, Casandra, Melissa, Lyric, Justin, Danielle, Brittney, Courtney, Amanda, Chris, Jordan, Trevon, Tanner, Taylor, Idan, Sydney, Dennis, Abigail, Jason, Joanne and Ralph plus her 22 great-grandchildren, her brother Robert Biegler, many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Eleanor (Lamb) Biegler, her grandson, Aaron Johns and her sisters, Mary Allen and Dorothy Westfall.

Patty leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, generosity, and unwavering kindness. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.