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Joan Stolz Obituary
Joan Cantwell Stolz, 80 of Bethlehem died on January 5, 2013 at St. Lukes-Fountain Hill surrounded by her family. The wife of the late George Stolz, Jr. who died in 1971, she was a church organist, union organizer and political activist. Joan was born in NYC, daughter of the late Robert Emmett and Betsy (Chambers) Cantwell. She was a member of Salem Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, where she sang in the choir, performed as a substitute organist and served as a member of Lunch Bunch. Joan graduated from Radcliffe College, in Cambridge, MA, received her teaching certificate from Moravian College and also studied music at Columbia University and Muhlenberg College. She was a musician who provided music therapy to residents at numerous Lehigh Valley nursing homes. Survivors: Daughter Mary Elizabeth Beth Passaro, wife of Chris Lewis of NYC; sons Martin T. Stolz, husband of Tasha of Salt Lake City, Robert C. Stolz, husband of Camille of US Virgin Islands and George C. Stolz, companion of Elizabeth of NYC; sisters Mary Nelson of Bethesda, MD, and Betsy Ann Pusey, of Kennett Square, PA; and ten grandchildren. Service: Memorial Service on Sunday, January 13, 2013 at 2 p.m. in Salem Lutheran Church 537 High St., Bethlehem, call at 1 p.m. in the Church. Funeral arrangements are by the John F. Herron Funeral Home and Herron Crematory in Bethlehem. Contributions: Salem Lutheran Church or Moravian Academy.
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Memories and Condolences
for Joan Stolz
Christine Krueger
January 18, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Joan. I first met Joan when I was the activity director at Blough Healthcare in 2004. Joan would come to play the piano weekly and all the residents always looked forward to her arrival. When I left Blough and went to Emeritus at Allentown I asked Joan if she would make the trip to Allentown. She graciously agreed. Everyone there loved the days that Joan would be there and didn't want to miss the event. For the last 5 years Joan has been a major part of the resident's lives.
Joan rarely took time off except to visit her children. She was full of ideas and had a robust laugh. She was a true gem.
On behalf of the residents at Emeritus at Allentown, our deepest condolences to the family.
Sincerely,
Christine Krueger
eva gilleran
January 17, 2013
Stolz family sorry for the absentminded harried misspelling - im lighting a candle for Aunt Joan today
eva gilleran
January 16, 2013
dear stoltz family my deepest condolences you are all im my thoughts and prayers
January 15, 2013
Dear Stolz Family,
Mike and I enjoyed working with Joan through our various activities at LEPOCO. We noted how Joan could always bring joy with intellect to any discussion. We had special fun with her at the LEPOCO yard-sales where, one year, she fell in love with a lamp made of popsticks. I also knew Joan through her volunteer work at Blough and Moravian nursing homes where my mom live for several years. She was beautifully up-beat. Joan will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with her and her family.
Sincerely,
Laurie Spalholz & Mike Lawton
Arlene & Ron Gawlik
January 11, 2013
Stolz Family:
We are so very sorry for your loss and want to extend our deepest sympathies to you. It's never easy to lose someone so special and close to your heart. We hope that all the beautiful memories you all shared will somehow comfort you at this very sad and difficult time. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Joan Stolz
Rick Orloski
January 11, 2013
I learned from that my good friend , Joan Stolz of Bethlehm, died. Sad. So very sad. Joan was such a precious woman who wore her heart on her sleeve. She was always out there pitching, trying to help others. In the photo below, she appeared in a campaign commercial to help me.It was a fun day. Joan enlivened the event.I want to share a photo from that happy day with her family. Joan was high spirited and full of life and energy. She will be missed. I will say a prayer for my friend. Joan. "You pray for me, and I will for thee, so we can merrily meet in Heaven"
Sir Thomas More (1478-1535)
Jodi Dinsmore
January 10, 2013
My deepest condolences to you all. I remember your mom's smile well. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Gwen Millward
January 10, 2013
I worked with Joany and she could always make you laugh! A real unique lady!!
Rhonda
January 10, 2013
George and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember her as having a big heart for everyone. You are in my thoughts and prayers.(Tim's sister)
Rick and Kathy Orloski
January 9, 2013
Joan was a high spirited, compassioate, loving human who alway went out of her way to help others. We are all affected by her loss. She will be in our prayers.
Rick and Kathy Orloski
Lou Gilleran
January 8, 2013
Aunt Joan was an original who will never be forgotten. She was gregarious, inquisitive, involved, funny and generous. She always, and her memory will continue to, bring a smile to my face.
January 8, 2013
Dear Marty and family,
We are sad to learn of your mom's death and pray God's blessings on your family. We got to know her when we were members of Salem.
Elizabeth and Bruce Hoelter
January 7, 2013
Marty and Family:
Was very sad to hear about your mothers passing. She leaves behind a formidable legacy of having raised some amazing children. I send you and your family my finest regards,
Your Friend,
Andrew Lee
Cheryl Eckert
January 7, 2013
Beth, Our deepest sympathies to you and your family on the loss of your mom. We have fond memories from the old neighborhood - Cheryl & Michael
Eva Fraenkel
January 7, 2013
Joan and I were related for about 56 years, and doubly related for about 34 years. We shared so many fond memories and so many experiences. How I will miss her spirit, humor and kindness – her death is a devastating loss. My sincere condolences to all the family.
David & Miriam Devey
January 6, 2013
Dear Stolz Family,
We were so surprised to read that your mom passed away. It was not too long ago that we stopped at her house and talked with her. She was a wonderful person and did her very best to raise all of you children without a father after his unexpected death. We have many good memories of her and of all of your family. It did not list a viewing or burial. We want all of you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We would love to see you if you are in Bethlehem. We are in the telephone book.
Love Mr.& Mrs. David Devey
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