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Downing Funeral Home, Inc., 1002 W. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA (2026)

02/09/2026

Cheryl “Cheri” A. Buonanno, 66, of Bethlehem, passed away February 5, 2026. She was the loving wife and soul mate of 10 years to James “Jim” Buonanno, whom she had known for over 17 years. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of Barbara (Sinsky) Hood and the late Ron Brobst. Cheri served in the U.S. Army. She then worked as a Nurse for 27 years. After her retirement she worked at Weis Markets for a few years. Cheri was a mentally and physically tough woman. She also was a very intelligent and creative woman who when she wanted anything, she made sure she got it. She was very determined. She was fantastic in the kitchen where she would make everything taste so delicious. Cheri was a great researcher. Cheri had a beautiful spirit, very caring towards others especially those who needed consolation. Cheri would do just about anything for anybody. She was an extremely generous person for sure! Beautiful heart and soul! Her dog Toby, which she picked out online from Lancaster, will miss her. Cheri loved playing and walking Toby with her rollator. She made many friends along the way walking Toby. She taught Toby very well. Cheri was well known in our neighborhood. Heaven has a gem of a woman!
Survivors: husband- Jim Buonanno, mother- Barbara Hood, daughter- Angela Zemlansky, sister- Donna Van Etten, aunt- Ginny Haas, cousin- Mike Haas, mother-in-law- Benita C. Buonanno. She was predeceased by her brother- Robert Hood.
A Calling Time will be held on Friday, February 13th 5-7PM with a Memorial Service at 7PM in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

01/23/2026

Michael T. Shaffer, 58, of Bethlehem, passed away on January 17, 2026. He was the loving husband of 35 years to Kathleen O’Malley and the dedicated father of Christopher, Ethan, and Matthew.

Born in Denville, NJ, he was the son of Katherine (Keim) Shaffer and the late Gilbert Shaffer. The youngest of five children (sister Cathy; brothers Steve, Greg, and Tim), Michael maintained a strong bond with his siblings throughout his life. He cherished their annual beach week at Long Beach Island that brought together his parents, siblings, and eventually, their spouses, children, nieces, and nephews year after year. In a very large and ever-growing family filled with big personalities, Michael’s joyous presence always stood out.

Michael moved to Bethlehem to attend Moravian University where he became an integral part of the campus community, well known and beloved by students and faculty alike. There, he made many lifelong friends, including the love of his life, Kathleen O’Malley. Michael and Kathy brought out the best in each other. They were inseparable and complemented each others’ personalities in every way. Michael and Kathy were a perfect fit. The two were joyfully married at the campus chapel and settled in their college town to start their family and careers. Michael continued on to earn his Master's Degree from Kutztown, all while working and raising his young children.

As Michael's boys grew, he was proud to support them in pursuing their interests while also introducing them to his own. Michael was an avid comic book collector and shared that passion with his children by introducing them to the characters, themes, and ideals that drew him in as a child. In exchange, he developed a passion for their interests as well. He took great joy in attending all of their events from the time they were young. Even in recent years, he always prioritized his sons’ soccer games and musical performances. Together, the family developed a shared love for cheering on Premier League and MLS soccer teams, listening to music, and watching TV and movies.

Michael also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dog, Jenny. And to Jenny, Michael was her person. She eagerly watched the door every day for him to get home. They spent their time together playing in the back yard and just enjoying each other’s company. On their daily walks, Michael was widely recognized in the neighborhood, always offering a welcoming hello and ready to listen and share with everyone around him. He made lifelong friends with many neighbors. Michael loved his community and shared it with others by hosting friends and family for events like Christkindlmarkt, the Parade of Shamrocks, and Musikfest.

Michael’s love for family and community extended far beyond his own. He dedicated his entire professional career to Pinebrook Family Answers, a nonprofit family services organization. Beginning in 1989 as a caseworker, Michael ultimately rose to serve as Chief Executive Officer. Over more than three decades, he became a steady, compassionate presence whose influence shaped the organization as deeply as his kindness touched the people within it. He will be long remembered for his ever‑present smile, his caring nature, the cheerful whistle that echoed through Pinebrook’s hallways, and even his endearing love of a bright parking vest—small but cherished reflections of his joyful spirit. Guided by a profound commitment to meeting families where they are, Michael strengthened Pinebrook’s mission and impact on countless children and families.

His dedication extended even further through his service with the Pool Fellowship for Health, the Pennsylvania Council of Children and Youth and Family Services, and the Project Child Advisory Committee of the Child Abuse Prevention Coalition of the Lehigh Valley, leaving a legacy of leadership, generosity, and heart.

Michael brought joy and happiness everywhere he went. He was well known for his big smile and infectious laugh. He will be deeply missed by many.

Michael is survived by his wife Kathy; mother Kay; sons Chris (Liz), Ethan (Annika), and Matt (Cait); siblings Cathy (Dave), Steve (Michele), Greg (Eleanor), and Tim (Jaqueline); and beloved dog Jenny. He also leaves a large family of in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Services: On Friday, January 30th, a Calling Time will be held at Downing Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00PM. On Saturday, January 31st, a Calling Time will be held at Rosemont Lutheran Church from 9:00-10:00AM with a funeral service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Michael Shaffer Memorial Fund at Pinebrook Family Answers (www.pbfalv.org).

01/22/2026

David C. Muth, 68, of Emmaus, passed away in his home on January 21, 2026. He was the loving husband of nearly 43 years to Joan M. (Szvetecz) Muth, with whom he shared more than 50 years together.

Born in Allentown, Dave was the son of the late Charles and Betty Mae (Schmoyer) Muth. He was a 1975 graduate of Liberty High School and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Moravian College in 1979.

Dave built a long and meaningful career in financial positions in the healthcare industry. He worked as an accountant at Lutheran Home at Topton, where he formed many lifelong friendships, and later served as Chief Financial Officer at New Vitae, Inc. He concluded his career at Concern, from which he retired.

In his younger years, Dave had a deep passion for music. He was a talented trombone player and a proud member of both the Pioneer Band and the American Legion Band. It was through music that David met the love of his life — Joan — while playing together in the marching band at Liberty High School. As their children grew older, Dave chose to step away from music so he could devote more time and energy to his family, a decision that reflected his lifelong priorities.

Above all else, Dave was a devoted family man who was always willing to help his children, grandchildren, and friends in any way he could. He took great pride in caring for his home and pool and was never afraid to take on a home improvement project. His home was a gathering place, where he enjoyed hosting friends and family at his annual summer pool party. He especially treasured his many cats and granddogs. Dave was a faithful member of Old Zionsville United Church of Christ and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dave is survived by his wife, Joan Muth; daughter, Kelly Kowalewski and her husband, Travis; son, Ryan Muth and his wife, Kimberly; grandchildren, Luke, Willow, Carter, and Ava.

A viewing will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m., at Downing Funeral Home, Inc., 1002 W. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in David’s memory to Old Zionsville United Church of Christ, 5981 Fountain Road, Old Zionsville, PA 18068.

01/09/2026

Anna M. (Schlaner) Blackwood, 68, of Bethlehem, passed away January 6, 2026. She was the loving wife of the late John Blackwood, III. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late Anna (Stoudt) and John Schlaner. Anna graduated from Southern Lehigh High School in 1975. She was a long-time volunteer for the Celtic Cultural Alliance at the Celtic Classic. She was the ultimate sports mom, attending all of her son’s sporting events when they were young. Anna loved music and going to concerts with her husband, especially Meatloaf and Jimmy Buffett. She also enjoyed going on cruises, her favorite being the American Virgin Islands. Anna loved the color purple, butterflies, frogs and dogs, her most recent dog rescue being her best friend, Milo. She will be deeply missed.
Survivors: sons- John Blackwood, IV and his wife Tara Blackwood of Annapolis, MD and Jeramy D. Blackwood and his wife Danielle Blackwood of Rock Island, IL; grandchildren- J. Gifford, Jase and Bo Blackwood; brothers- John, Richard and Frank Schlaner.
A viewing will be held on Monday, January 12th 5-7PM and Tuesday, January 13th 9:15-10:00AM with a Service to follow at 10:00AM in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in St. Paul’s Blue Church Cemetery, Coopersburg.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Lehigh Valley Humane Society 640 Dixon St. Allentown, PA 18103.

12/31/2025

Walter F. Sullivan, Jr., 84, of Bethlehem, passed away at home on December 29, 2025. He was
the husband of the late Leslie (DeForest) Sullivan. They were married for 52 years. Born in
Staten Island, NY, he was the son of the late Kathryn (O’Brien) and Walter F. Sullivan, Sr. Walt
worked for Durkee Foods in Bethlehem for many years. He enjoyed traveling with family and
attending the sporting events and activities of his 6 grandchildren. He was a lifelong golfer and
an avid reader. He will be deeply missed.
Walt is survived by his children Kevin Sullivan and his wife Catherine, Ryan Sullivan and his
wife Becky, and Stacey Gowen and her husband Bob, and by grandchildren Aidan and Liam
Sullivan, Chloe and Quinn Sullivan and Caley and Sean Gowen. He is also survived by
brothers Brien Sullivan of NY and Quin Sullivan of VA. He was predeceased by sister Carol
Sullivan.
Services will be private for the family.
Contributions can be made in Walter’s memory to the Bethlehem Area Public Library.

12/08/2025

Anne M. (Murphy) Bowser, 78, of Bethlehem, passed away December 4, 2025. She was the loving wife of over 55 years to Ronald S. Bowser. Born in Bethlehem, she was the daughter of the late Richard E. and Virginia M. (Byrem) Murphy. She was a 1965 graduate of Liberty High School and worked as a Dental Assistant for many years.

Anne had a warm and welcoming personality and home - the back door was always open. As matriarch of the neighborhood “kool-aid house”, she opened her home not only to her friends and family, but to her kids’ friends as well. Many have called her their “second mom”. She loved working in her beautiful garden and spending time outside. She could often be found sitting on the patio on a summer evening chatting with someone from the neighborhood that had come to visit. Anne liked music and loved to dance and enjoyed spending time in Beach Haven on LBI, which was her happy place. She also loved playing games both on the computer and with family, as well as doing Wordle, working on puzzles and doing crosswords. But most of all, Anne loved being a wife, a mom and especially a grandmother. Spending time with her four granddaughters was the highlight of her life. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors: husband- Ronald Bowser, daughter- Erica Eynon and husband Jeff, son- Ronnie Bowser and wife Mary, granddaughters- Ruby Anne, McKenna, Kacey and Cecilia, brother- Richard Murphy and wife Ariel, sister- Kathleen Murphy and husband Terry Magliane, several nieces and nephews.

Services will be Private care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Anne’s memory to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.

12/02/2025

John W. Check, 73, of Fountain Hill, passed away November 29, 2025. He was the loving husband of the late Marilyn Check. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late John and Anna Check. John graduated from Liberty High School and was the original owner of the Broken Spoke Bicycle Shop in Easton. John enjoyed cycling, doing carpentry, horseback riding and was an animal lover. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors: sons- Chad Check and his late fiancé Sheila Kolesnik, Jesse Check and wife Christine, grandson- Ira Check, partner- Marion Amato, nephews- Frankie and Brian Szabo, Baker family members in Alabama and Fisher family members in Florida and pets Bo, Sherwood and Marley. He was predeceased by his sister- Janice Szabo.
Services will be Private for the family

Contributions can be made in John’s memory to Last Chance Ranch.

11/13/2025

Robert "Bob" Woroniak, 91, of Allentown went to heaven peacefully at LVHN Hospice on 11/12/25, surrounded by his loving family. He was the cherished husband of Sylvia (Taglioli) Woroniak,
with whom he shared over 68 years of mar-riage. He served in the U.S. Army for 3 years stationed in Alaska during peacetime. He subsequently trained to be an electri-cian, was a member of IBEW #375, and worked for Orlando Diefenderfer for 40 years. Upon retirement, he continued to volunteer his time, skills, and knowledge to anyone who needed assistance. He was a faithful member of St.Thomas More Catholic Church. Bob was an avid fisherman who never passed up an opportunity to be on the water with fishing buddies and his many fishing rods (some handmade). Summers were spent on Long Beach Island, NJ with his family, a tradition that continued for decades and grew to include his grandchildren. He enjoyed gardening and working on his extensive model train display which included hand-made models of each of his children's homes.
He is also survived by his 4 children, 8 grand-children, and 2 great-grandchildren. Daughter Karen (Woroniak) Goldner of Allentown, and her children Ally Schultz, Jason Goldner, Jill (Goldner) Leeb, her husband Ari, and her grandchildren Anna and Nathan Leeb. Daughter Debra (Woroniak) Nalbandian of Bethlehem and her children Martin and Noelle. Daughter Diane (Woroniak) Boyajian and her husband Robert of Upper Saddle River, NJ, and their children Katie and lulia. Son Robert Woroniak, Jr. and his wife Dawn-Marie of Harrisburg, and their daughter Trace (Woroniak) Tavlor and her husband
Justin. Bob was also loved and will be missed by countless extended family members and friends.
Services: Saturday, 11/15/25 at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1046 W. Cedar Street, Allentown. Calling hour 9:00am to 10:00am at the church, followed by a Catholic Mass of remembrance at
10:00am.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lehigh Valley Hospice, 2024
Lehigh Street, Allentown, PA 18103

09/05/2025

Celeste Roney, 77, of Bethlehem, died peacefully on September 3, 2025 surrounded by her children. Born in Detroit, MI she was the daughter of the late Charles and Maureen (Cunningham) Roney. Celeste was a member of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church and found much solace and grounding in her faith. She spent many years working for the Youthful You Program of the Lehigh Valley Health Network where she answered phones, scheduled massages, made lifelong friends and greeted everyone with warmth and kindness. She also spent her working days in advertising at WJBR in Detroit, as an aerobics instructor for the Jewish Community Center of Allentown and as a friendly, but no-nonsense bus driver for Northwestern Lehigh School District.
Raised in Detroit, Celeste lived for music. She was an avid participant in her drum circle class at Lutheran Manor. She sang and danced her way through life. And, in her later years, did so with a walker if she had to. She loved bird watching, road tripping and was the self-proclaimed #1 fan of Sir Paul McCartney. Her big blue eyes, and wide smile lit up a room and she was always the life of every party.
To say she will be missed would be the understatement of the century.
She is survived by her three children, Cynthia Ruckdeschel, Daniel John Ruckdeschel, Anne Marie Ruckdeschel; bonus daughter, Abby Feinstein; grandsons, Henry Daniel Feinstein and Murphy Charles Feinstein; sisters, Susan Roney Drennan and Marty Roney; niece, Maureen Drennan; and nephew, Paul Gagner. She was predeceased by her siblings, Mary Pellerito, Belle Henzel, Chickie Roney and Sara Roney.
Celeste was very clear that in the event of her death she would like a party. A gathering will be held on Sunday, September 14th from 2-5pm at Bicentennial Park, Pavillion A in East Allen Township. Address 5351 Park West Lane, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Bring your stories and dancing shoes.

08/25/2025

Edward J. Hearn, 77, of Bethlehem, passed away in his home on August 13, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Susan J. (Johnson) Hearn who he met at 17 years old. They would have been married 56 years in October. Born into a large family of cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins in Hazelton, he was the son of the late Elizabeth Ann (Generose) and Edward Lee Hearn. His family eventually settled and grew in Bethlehem where he chose to remain and raise a family of his own. He enjoyed the simple life of his childhood in the Kaywin development along with the summers he spent in Fairmont, West Virginia, the hometown of his father.
Ed graduated from Liberty High School in 1965 and later served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. During this time, he flew second seat as a TO (Technical Observer) in the OV-1B Mohawk, responsible for operating the aircraft's surveillance and reconnaissance equipment. He was grateful that he, unlike so many, was able to return home safely. He shared stories of this time throughout his life.
He began his career at Western Electric where he became a master machinist. He remained there through the many company changes, ultimately retiring from Agere Systems where he proudly served as the Union Vice President of IBEW Local 1522.
Edward was a devoted father to his two daughters, Kelly and Lori, who adored him beyond words. He cared greatly for his five siblings who as kids, referred to him as “Brother.” He enjoyed being a part of his giant extended family, and took a vested interest in the lives of his nieces and nephews. He was so proud of all of them. He made and kept friends wherever he went and often made them feel like family as well. His grandson and granddaughter, whom he referred to as “his heart and soul,” were his obvious favorites. He loved to watch them perform and would be only too happy to share a video or photo to anyone who hung around for more than ten minutes.
He loved to share stories and often sang or whistled a tune as he moved throughout his day. He was a great listener and genuinely enjoyed hearing from others. He loved to golf and try his luck at the casino. He enjoyed travelling, good food, meeting new people, and spending time with friends and family. He was so much fun to be around and a darn good dancer, too.
Mr. Hearn, Edward, Eddie, Ed, Dad, Brother, and Pop-Pop, depending on how you knew him, will surely be remembered for his humor and wit, but mostly for his kindness. He treated everyone with respect and had a kind and generous heart that only became softer with time. He was quick to lend a hand whenever it was needed to friends and strangers alike.
He will be deeply missed but kept alive in our memories and actions until we meet again in Heaven.
Survivors: wife- Susan J. Hearn; daughters- Kelly Hearn and Lori Davidson wife of Nathan; grandchildren- Brady and Riley Davidson; siblings- Mary Moyer, Dolores Dalrymple and Thomas Hearn husband of Vanessa. He was predeceased by his siblings- Elizabeth Pass and Mark Hearn.
His family would like to invite everyone to join them for Military Honors on Sunday, September 14th at 12PM with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Bethlehem Municipal Golf Course 400 Illick’s Mill Rd Bethlehem, PA 18017 in the pavilion behind the Club House Grille Restaurant.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Edward’s memory to Second Harvest of Lehigh Valley 6969 Silver Crest Road Nazareth, PA 18064.

07/14/2025

Linda J. Gray, 76, of Bethlehem, passed away on July 12, 2025. She was the loving wife of 54 years to John P. Gray. Born in Champaign-Urbana, IL, Linda was the daughter of the late Edward and Jeanne (Trainor) LaChapelle. A successful business woman for nearly 40 years, Linda traveled to several continents in her final role as purchasing manager before retiring from FLSmidth. Linda was a graduate of Indiana University-Bloomington.

Linda was a member of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church and of the Church's 55+ Club. She was also a member of the ZTA Sorority for which she volunteered while serving as advisor to her sorority sisters at Moravian University. Linda enjoyed traveling, reading, walking, dancing, aerobics and spending time with her family wherever they were in the world. She was an incredibly kindhearted person who enjoyed taking care of others, and was a fantastic cook.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, including her surviving relatives: husband- John Gray; daughters- Michele Gray and Shannon Flounders and husband Jef; grandchildren- Julien Sanchez, Adriene Sanchez, Haley Flounders, Mason Flounders and Luke Flounders; and, siblings- Ed LaChapelle, Richard LaChapelle, Mary Kozma, John LaChapelle and Leslie Bennett.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 17th from 10-11am at Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church, 1861 Catasauqua Rd., Bethlehem, PA with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11am. Burial to follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Linda’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association, care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

07/10/2025

Ronald “Ron” P. Nelson, 75, of Center Valley, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025 at Lehigh Valley Hospital. He grew up in Fountain Hill, son of the late Paul and Caroline (Spirk), and husband to the late Mary Wagner. Ron was ‘a jack of all trades’ working as a salesman to a construction worker. Over the years, he had many dogs, always a German Shepherd, who became his favorite companions. He was an avid gun collector. He enjoyed watching sports, action movies and reading adventurous books. He was an accomplished chess player and would retell the story of playing chess with the inmates of Lewisburg Penitentiary. Did you hear this story? Ron loved to tell stories about events that happened to him and his family and his pets. He was an optimist and never complained about his life situation.
Ron will be lovingly remembered by his sister, Cindi Nelson Christman, sons Brian (Pankey) and Rob Wagner (Karen), daughter, Kim Barrett, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 from 6-8pm at the Downing Funeral Home, 1002 West Broad St in Bethlehem. Saturday service is private.
Memorial contribution may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

02/09/2026

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