Joan Anne (Cassidy) Stofanak, 89, of Bethlehem, passed away May 4, 2026. She was the loving wife of the late Joseph Stofanak. Born in Bethlehem, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mildred (Reed) Cassidy. Joan graduated from Central Catholic High School and was a member of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church. She enjoyed going to the beach and to the casino. She will be deeply missed.



Survivors: sisters- Ellen Charlton wife of the late Michael, Mary Rummel and husband Reed; nieces & nephews- Ken Rummel, Kim Ferroni and Shawn Cassidy; great nieces & nephews- Ethan, Max, Claudia and Gabrielle Ferroni, Alyssa and Alex Rummel.



Services were held Privately for the family.



In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Notre Dame of Bethlehem Church.

William H. Zoshak, 89, of Fogelsville, passed away April 30, 2026.

Bill was the loving husband of Lorraine (Matuczinski) Gyauch Zoshak for 26 years. Born in Yonkers, NY, he was the son of William N. and Wanda Zoshak.

As a young man, Bill received his master’s degree in education and taught in a seminary. Later, he served as a School Superintendent in New York City for many years. Notably, on the day before his 40th birthday, Bill joined the U.S. Air Force as a chaplain. He then served military personnel and their families for 22 years, eventually reaching the rank of Colonel. He was assigned to places such as Virginia, Alaska, New York, Hawaii, England, and Japan before an honorable discharge at retirement.

Bill savored traveling (especially cruises), going to the theatre, watching tennis, and viewing fine art. Throughout his life, he cherished spending time on the water, especially on his pontoon boat.

Anyone who knew Bill recognized his robust personality and sharp mind. He belonged to a book club at Moravian College and regularly kept abreast of politics. Bill was dedicated to working out over the years and would even show off his ability to do as many pushups as the years of his life. He displayed joie de vivre.

Throughout his life, Bill cared deeply for his parents, sister, and nieces as well as other family. He was known to lovingly tend to his bonsai plants as well as his home and prized lawn. He enjoyed a good, countryside motorcycle ride with Lorraine in the sidecar, a leisurely walk through nature, and smoking a fine cigar with a son-in-law. Bill was also very proud of his twenty years of volunteer service at Lehigh Valley Hospital.

Without fail, Bill could be counted upon to tell captivating stories about his life adventures to everyone. He radiated a sense that life had plenty to teach and that humor enlivened life.

Bill will be deeply missed.

Survivors: wife- Lorraine Gyauch Zoshak; step-daughters- Denise Gyauch (David Lewis), Annette Maron (Tim), Thérèse Gyauch (Joseph Quirk), Michelle Dzema (Edward); grandchildren- Dylan & Dara Gyauch-Lewis, Chloe & Lallie Maron, Noah Gyauch-Quirk, Cooper & Bailey Dzema; nieces- Therese McMcgrath (late Dennis), Jacqueline Kinney-Firraro (Anna Marie), and Andrea Bentley (Ken). He was predeceased by his sister- Wanda.

A calling time will be he held on Monday, May 11th 11AM-12PM with a Memorial Service to follow at 12PM, all collectively held at Blessed Trinity Lutheran Church at Rosemont 1705 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial will take place privately at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

Contributions can be made in Bill’s memory to The DeSales Art Angels at DeSales University.
https://engage.desales.edu/portal/online-giving?form_prepop-link=Yes&form_sys:gift:fund_key=CRTA&form_prepop-fund-name=DeSales%20Arts%20Angels%20Endowment%20Fund

Robert M. Check, 80, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. He was the loving husband of the late Celeste M. (Horwath) Check. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Stephen William and Margaret (Velopolcak) Check. Bob was a proud U.S. Marine, serving in the Corps during the Vietnam War. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and computer science from Moravian University. Throughout his career, Bob worked for Bethlehem Steel at the Homer Research Center, AT&T, Lucent Technologies, and Agere. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and feeding the wild songbirds in his backyard. Bob was a member of various local social clubs. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Survivors: daughter- Amanda Check of Danielsville, PA and her partner Chris Romano; son- Randall Check of Bethlehem, PA and his spouse Ariel Quinn and their daughter Amelia Check; sister- Susan Check and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother- Stephen Check.
A Calling Time will be held on Thursday, March 12 10-11AM with a Memorial Service at 11AM all in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Brian W. Gaugler, 83, of Bethlehem, passed away February 28, 2026. He was the loving husband to Karen A. (Messick) Gaugler. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Marie (McCafferty) and Raymond Gaugler Sr. Brian graduated from Liberty High School and retired from Bethlehem Steel after 32 years of service. Brian was known for his quick wit, upbeat personality, and always lending a hand to help others. He loved riding his Harley Davidson through the Pocono Mountains and visiting his three daughters and grandchildren in Florida. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, 76ers and NASCAR. Brian enjoyed golfing, fishing and watching Clint Eastwood movies. He was also a lifetime member of various local social clubs and was committed to supporting their missions. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors: wife- Karen Gaugler; daughters- Robin Read and her children- Nicolas & Matthew Read, Tammy Read wife of Jeremy and their children- Bryan and Megan Read, Wendy Gaugler wife of Ray Lubomski; step-son- Charlie Kline Jr. He was predeceased by his brother- Raymond Gaugler Jr.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 11th 10-11 with a Service at 11:15 in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Cedar Hill Memorial Park.

Contributions can be made in Brian’s memory to the American Cancer Society care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

Edward J. Palenchar, 95, of Bethlehem, passed away February 23, 2026. He was the loving husband of the late Eleanor (Farkas) Palenchar. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Frank and Anna (Kostelnick) Palenchar. Edward worked as a painter for many years, retiring from Bethlehem Steel. He was a member of Saints Simon and Jude Catholic Church. He was a Golden Hiller, enjoyed traveling with his wife and was Lehigh University and Eagles and Phillies sports fan. He also enjoyed playing cards especially family favorite Pinochle. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors: sons- Thomas and wife Linda of Charleston, WV, Richard and wife Jennifer of Bethlehem, David of Easton, Robert and wife Tina, of Nazareth; grandchildren- Andrew, Nicole, Jason, Randy, Aubrey, Ashley, Joshua, Jordyn, Tayler and Madisyn; 13 great grandchildren; brother- Richard and wife Bonnie of Hellertown. He was predeceased by his brothers- William and Francis.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 4th 9:30-10:30AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:30AM all in Saints Simon and Jude Catholic Church 730 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to Family Pillars Hospice care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.

Dolores “Lori” Ronca Bianco Ottesen, 94, of Bethlehem, passed peacefully on February 20, 2026. Born in 1931 in Fountain Hill, Lori was one of nine children of Philip and Anna Ronca. Raised in a large, spirited Italian family home filled with homemade pasta, pastries, laughter, and storytelling, she carried that warmth and welcoming spirit with her throughout her life.

After graduating from Fountain Hill High School, where she excelled academically and cheered with enthusiasm, Lori attended Millersville University. She paused her studies to care for her beloved sister, Dorothy, before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Education. She began her teaching career in New York and continued for more than 40 years in the Bethlehem Area School District, shaping young lives with patience, intelligence, and kindness. She spoke of those years with lasting pride and affection.

Lori married Frank Bianco, President and Owner of Pembroke Dress Co., and lovingly raised their five children in Stafore Estates, a neighborhood she was especially proud of, as it was built by her father, Philip Ronca. Her twin sister, Maryanne Werpehowski, lived nearby, and together they raised their children. As some of the earliest residents of Stafore, the family became part of a close-knit community that fostered lifelong friendships. Lori was also a longtime member of Saucon Valley Country Club.

Bright, stylish, and entrepreneurial, Lori had a keen eye for real estate and interior design, always making her homes feel warm, beautiful, and welcoming. A devout Catholic and member of Notre Dame Church in Bethlehem, faith and family were at the heart of everything she did.

In 1990, Lori married Peter Ottesen, Technology Executive and Author, and began a joyful new chapter filled with global travel, companionship, and shared passions. Lori loved tennis, golf, and staying active, always relishing time spent with Peter. Together, they enjoyed playing duplicate bridge and earned the level of Bridge Life Masters, finding great delight in the intricacies of the game. They spent winters in their Boca Raton, Florida home, enjoying their hobbies and lifestyle at The Polo Club, where they made wonderful friends.

A lover of the arts, Lori was active with the Pennsylvania Playhouse, often performing alongside her children. She was also a dedicated member of the American Association of University Women, supporting educational and charitable causes. Music filled her home — especially show tunes sung around the piano, with Lori leading the way.

An excellent seamstress and gracious host, Lori delighted in cooking and baking for family and friends. Holidays were joyful, summers by the pool were lively, and no one ever left her home without feeling full and cared for. Lori had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen and special. With her quick wit, radiant smile, and infectious laugh, she lit up every room. She wished most to be remembered for her kindness, and that is exactly how she will be remembered: vibrant, loving, fabulous, and unforgettable. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, daughter, and aunt, she will be missed every day, but her sparkle will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who love her.

Lori is lovingly remembered by her five children: Kathleen (Gerard) McNally; Francine Bianco Tax and her late husband Gregory; Lisa (Troy) Guth; Kristine Eckenrode; and Joseph Bianco. She was blessed with nine grandchildren: Brian and Brendan McNally; Clayton Tax; Natasha (Anthony) Lacken; Tyler (fiancée Sara Bain) and Colby Guth; Emory and Skyla Eckenrode; Brianna Bianco; and one cherished great-grandchild, Joseph Lacken.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 28, at 10:00 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, 1861 Catasauqua Road, Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Adelaide M. Ortwein, 98, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully February 14, 2026. She was born in Bethlehem to the late Angela C. Hoffstetter and John F. Meis. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Robert J. Ormiston, son Michael Ormiston, stepgrandson Derek Kehoe, husband Leonard Ortwein and also her siblings Anna Marie Minarik, John L. Meis and Joan Andrews.
Adelaide graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School. Prior to raising a family she worked as a stenographer at Bethlehem Steel. After the loss of her first husband she was employed with Lehigh University and also worked as a sales clerk at Ramballs Jewelery Store.
Adelaide had a deep and strong faith and family was very important to her. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing bridge and traveling abroad. Adelaide was full of life and enjoyed hosting parties, dancing and singing around the piano. She had a gift of making people feel welcome in her home.
She is survived by her children Lois Kehoe (Kevin) of Bethlehem, Robert Ormiston (Alysia) of Zion Grove, stepchildren Martha Tirpak (John) of Allentown, Regina Kohlmeier (Joe) of Allentown, Kathleen Weaver (Keith) of Dundee, NY, 4 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Calling time will be held on Saturday, February 21st 9-10AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10AM all in Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church 1861 Catasauqua Rd. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Downing Funeral Home, Inc.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Holy Family Senior Living 1200 Spring St. Bethlehem, PA 18018 or to St. Lukes Hospice 240 Union Station Plaza Bethlehem, PA 18015.

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.