Aug 23, 2024 By Eleanor Bailey 3 min read

Amber Haefner

Amber Haefner was many things to many people, and her passing on July 25 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer has carved a hole in the hearts of the Bethel Park community, particularly the school district for which she was employed as a special education teacher.

In a Facebook post, following Haefner’s death at age 40, the school district shared the tragic news and expressed its “profound” sadness.

“She was a beloved teacher at our high school,” the post said. “Her kindness, warmth and love touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on our community.”

Born Amber Rose Speranza, she was married to Justin Haefner and mother to Izabella and Elliana. The daughter of Gino and April Speranza had two siblings, Jamie and Gina. She was the sister-in-law of Kristen McAlpine and aunt of Kyle and Kelsey.

“Amber was an amazing mom, educator, coach and friend,” said Heather Semplice-Scott. “She made an impact on so many that we will remember her forever. We love and miss her.”

While Semplice-Scott’s heart goes out to Haefner’s husband and children, she noted her death also caused a void for her students as well as some athletes. Haefner and Semplice-Scott coached softball together at Bethel Park. Semplice-Scott noted Haefner’s demeanor as a dedicated coach and willingness to go the extra mile for anyone.

“Amber always brought love, laughter and joy into our lives,” Semplice-Scott said. “She thought of everyone before herself. She taught us the true meaning of sacrifice, how to be a motivator and a fighter.”

Haefner was particularly gifted in the classroom. She made sure her students had every opportunity to learn and grow.

“She took being a special education teacher to heart,” Semplice-Scott added. “The words, ‘I can’t,’ were not in her vocabulary nor her students.”

According to Patrick Zehnder, Haefner displayed courage throughout her battle with cancer. Because they both are in special education, Zehnder and Haefner worked together.

“She was just one of those rare people who had a great combination of intellect, sense of humor as well as care and dedication for the kids,” Zehnder said. Noting that she’d been fighting cancer for the past four years, he added, “Amber showed great strength and positivity throughout regardless of her condition.”

As her cancer progressed, the community banded together. A heartwarming initiative was launched, and a meal train, consisting of restaurant gift cards, was organized to provide family meals, affording Haefner an opportunity to focus on her health and family.

According to Karen Stofesky, the effort was more than just providing meals. Stofesky organized the event, in part, because she was a longtime friend of Haefner and her own child was one of Haefner’s students.

“This was about showing Amber and her family that they were not alone. Amber has always been there for us. We were now there for them.”

The community continued to be there for her family.

Many adults showed up wearing purple or sporting purple ribbons when they attended a Celebration of Life event held Aug. 3 at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. Afterwards, a memorial service was held in the funeral home’s chapel.

Additionally, a trust fund for the children is being established. Donations may be mailed to 6110 Brush Run Road, Bethel Park, PA, 15102, or deposited at Venmo account @Just_Haef.