Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Downing Funeral Home

1002 West Broad Street

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

William Guth Obituary

Guth Jr., William J.William "Billy" J. Guth Jr., 57, of Bethlehem, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2015. He was the loving husband of 30 years to Mary B. (Bender) Guth. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late William and Joann (Herman) Guth. Billy had retired as a Supervisor from City of Bethlehem Emergency Medical Services after 35 years of service. He was also a previous Bethlehem Twp. Paramedic, a Critical Incident Stress Management "CISM" Senior member, a CPR Instructor through the American Heart Assoc., on the Fire Crew at Nazareth Speedway and an Eagle Scout with Silver Palms. Billy was a volunteer for the Fountain Hill Emergency Squad for 20 years where he served as a past President. He was also on the Eastern PA EMS Council Board and a former Chairman of the Eastern PA EMS Conference. He was a lifelong member of Christ Church UCC, Bethlehem. Billy enjoyed NASCAR and boating with his family at their Pocono cabin. Survivors: Wife- Mary B. Guth; Daughter- Sarah E. Guth of Bethlehem; Brothers- Bruce Guth of Herndon, VA, Daniel Guth of Allentown; Sister- Diane Ensley of Bethlehem; Aunt- Louise DelVillaggio and numerous nieces, nephews, great nephews and many friends and colleagues. Services: A viewing will be held on Friday 4-8PM in Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. A viewing will be held Saturday 8-9:30AM in Christ Church UCC 75 E. Market St. Bethlehem, PA 18018 with a service at 9:30AM in the church. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Billy's memory to the American Diabetes Assoc. PO B ox 4383 Bethlehem PA 18018 or the American Heart Assoc. 968 Postal Road, Suite 110 Allentown, PA 18109.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Morning Call on Mar. 17, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for William Guth

Sponsored by Downing Funeral Home.

Not sure what to say?





John Wildermann

March 11, 2024

Hard to believe it´s been 9 years

John Wildermann

March 11, 2023

Such wonderful memories of Bill. Gone too soon.

John Wildermann

Keith Brooks

February 25, 2022

Coming up on 7 years without you here.
But I´ve felt your hand on my shoulder, and you whispering in my ear "Suck it up buttercup´ on my dark days.
I´m so glad your my friend Billy. Always remembered.

Keith Brooks

March 11, 2019

Hey cupcake, coming on 4 years, wow. Miss you like it was yesterday my friend.

Debbie (Desh) Smith

April 4, 2015

Dear Guth Family, I grew up near Billy and his family and remember when we were in high school how much he talked about how he wanted to be an EMT and/or paramedic. I ended up moving away and lost touch with the family. I just found out from a friend that Billy had passed on. I'm so glad he made it and touched so many lives for the better. My condolences to his family.

March 27, 2015

I never knew you Mr Guth. But I haveheard and read so much about you. A true professional in the EMS world. Someone who truly cared for others. Rest in peace . --Jeffrey Stoeckel .

Barbara Amidon

March 23, 2015

Rest in peace, Bill. I enjoyed working with you in the duplicating department of Moravian College in the 80's and have many happy memories of your sense of humor.

Chris Sexton

March 22, 2015

A smile, a joke, a twinkle in his eye. These are what I will continue to picture when I think of Billy. It was a shock and heartbreaking to learn of his passing. Billy was a joy to work with on a story about his EMS crew several years ago. As he and a colleague demonstrated their duties on the job in the back of a moving ambulance, Billy made it look like he was born to do it, and also crack jokes to lighten the mood. God bless his loving family. It will hurt not catching a glimpse of him around town. Glad to have known Billy. My deepest sympathy,

Jeff Mitchell

March 22, 2015

I am deeply saddened by the news of Billy's passing. My thoughts go out to his family.

Glenn & Lisa Eshbach

March 22, 2015

Mary and Sarah,
We were so very sad to hear of Billy's passing. He was such a wonderful person. The many years if service to the community he gave is only second to the love he had for his family. We know the loss of Billy is overwhelming , but his love will remain always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you . We were very lucky to have known Billy.

Michael Goodwin, NREMT-P

March 22, 2015

Thank you and your family for service to the community ! Rest in peace !

Bea Cravatta

March 21, 2015

Mary and Sarah,
In my senior year at Moravian College, Bill offered to drive me to North Carolina so I could be interviewed for grad school at UNC-CH during Spring Break. "Bea, let's take a road trip!" I was accepted to the program and wholeheartedly believe that interview played a major role in my acceptance. Bill's generosity affected my life in so many ways. I am forever grateful our paths crossed. With a heavy heart, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Matt Doddy

March 21, 2015

During my years as an EMT with Dewey Fire Co I ran into Billy many times, as a new EMT, I felt at ease when we would rendezvous with "the City" and Billy got on board. A unforgettable personality. Rest in peace.

March 21, 2015

My thoughts and prayers our with you and your family. I know Joanne was waiting with opened arms.

Barb Fehnel
P.S. Joanne was my GOD Mother!
Barb Fritz was my maiden name.

Jeanne

March 21, 2015

Billy, you always made me feel like it was just yesterday that we were working together and that you'd been looking forward to seeing me again. Yet I know you made everyone feel that special. It was your gift to anyone lucky enough to know you. I'll miss those big bear hugs and your warm smile. To your wife and daughter, my condolences. He loved you both so much.

March 21, 2015

I have so many special memories of this great guy! Always a smile and sometimes a hug when you needed it. My deepest sympathy to his family and the his many, many friends.
Mary Rutt

Dave Bender

March 20, 2015

Mary and Sarah, Please accept our sincerest condolences. My father (Harry Bender) held Bill in high esteem and often talked about him in our conversations. This news is very unexpected. I hope you are able to find peace, during this difficult time, in the shared love of friends and family.

Dave Bender & son Craig

Dave Bender

March 20, 2015

Mary and Sarah, Please accept our sincerest condolences. My father (Harry Bender) held Bill in high esteem and often talked about him in our conversations. Hearing about Bill was unexpected and I hope you will find peace during these difficult times in the shared love of friends and family.

- Dave Bender & son Craig

March 20, 2015

Our community has been blessed to have Bill touch our lives. I am certain the welcome wagon was full of lots of people who were most happy to have him join them in heaven and to express thanks for the life he lived. You can be certain now that he is with the Lord he will continue to tell the Lord how very much he loves you his family and we the people of this area. We thank the Lord for the gift of Bill in our lives. Joe Rock, Bethlehem

CITY OF BETHLEHEM

March 20, 2015

GUTH FAMILY: DON'T CRY BECAUSE HIS LIFE IS OVER. SMILE, BECAUSE IT WAS. DEEPEST SYMPATHY. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME. MAY HE REST IN PEACE

Greg Frailey

March 20, 2015

God bless you and your family during these difficult times. We will cover your calls. Your kind and professional acts will be missed by all.

Lauren (George) Hnat

March 20, 2015

My first day in the St Luke's ER ten years ago was both exciting and scary. I didn't know what to expect so when the first medic I met was Billy, I knew I'd be ok. He had a larger than life personality and always knew how to make people smile. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family in this tragic time. One thing is for sure...the people of heaven have the best medic around taking care of them!,! RIP

Linda (Kline) Edwards, RN

March 20, 2015

I was sad to hear about Bill. My sincere condolences to his family.
I knew Bill back in the late 1970s as an EMT and staff at the ole' Muhlenberg ER were calling Bethlehem city to support developing a paramedic program. So for many years, until 1990s I knew Bill from working in the ER. He was always a pleasant and caring guy.
Bill is now in the presence of Gods eternal peace, love and light

John Reese

March 20, 2015

Mary and Sarah, Accept my deepest sympathy for the passing of Billy. The worth has lost a savior but,heaven has definately gained a big hearted angel. He always had a way to make a person laugh. But from My days on Fountain Hill Rescue Squad , I just new Billy would excel and go far in this field.I don't think I ever saw him without a smile. Good Bye Billy see you again some day. John S. Reese

Christopher Pepe

March 20, 2015

I met Billy Guth in 1999 when I enrolled in EMT school. I will never forget seeing him walk into the room that first night with a huge smile on his face saying "hello everyone, you can call me huggy bear". Billy was an excellent teacher and mentor to me back then and helped immensely. Over the years since then I got to know him through intermittent meetings at various hospitals. It wasn't until June of 2013 that I really got to know Billy, when I started working for the City of Bethlehem. He was one of the first to make me feel at home and help me adjust to the city Ems system and continued to help and mentor me. For me, I honestly felt like I was working with a legend, he helped me in Emt school so to working side by side with him was an immeasurable honor. I only wish I had more opportunities to work with such a great and accomplished man. 704, you will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Pam Bennett Wodzicki

March 20, 2015

It has taken me nearly a week to gather my thoughts and wrap my head around the fact that one of my dearest friends has passed. I have known Bill for 40 years and looking back consider those some of the best years of my life. The memories we shared will be forever written in my heart. The world has lost a truly good man. Bill's heart was bigger than anyone's I have ever met. From his bear hugs to his deep chortle to his caring heart, he was the epitome of a true friend. My heart aches for my loss but also for the loss his family has suffered. To Mary and Sarah, you were his soul mate and apple of his eye, respectively, and I know he will always be watching over you as he watched over so many others during his time here. Your loss is greater than any other's loss and I hope you find peace in knowing how much he meant to everyone he touched. Until we meet again, God speed my friend.

March 20, 2015

Our friend Billy , thank you for teaching us all to be Paramedics and EMT's by your instruction at times, but mostly by example. Billy you came from a time when learning to be a Paramedic was difficult, because no one had done it before you. You, and Duke Lindsay, Dick Seeds, A, J, Heighthman, Rich Kuklentz, Jim Frey, Marriane Kostenbader, and a few I'm sure I am forgetting, developed this Paramedic thing we all enjoy. And then passed it on to us everyday. Thankyou....
Billy thank you even more for being a good friend. That is also something you taught us by example. When Joni went to Bethlehem EMS, I worried about her safety, but knew Duke and Billy always had her back, thank you for that.
Billy what ever is done in the next few days to honor you, will pale in comparison to what you have done for your EMS brothers, Patient's -- 1000's of them, and friends.
Mary and Sarah, Knowing what Billy did for all of us, I can't even imagine what he was for you. You were his rock to come home to, his true love.
All our love and condolences Ed and Joni Gestl.

A one-of-a-kind floral arrangement for a one-of-a-kind "brother"!

A.J. Heightman

March 20, 2015

There will never be another person in this world like Billy Guth. His heart was as big as his body and his personbality shined brighter than the sun. Mary and Sarah:Thank you for sharing him with us all - He was, in the words of Dr. Moerkirk, "like mercury" - you could never keep him in one place for too long. His work and his personality will live on forever.

CLAUDIA MORGANELLO

March 20, 2015

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE GUTH FAMILY. WHAT A WONDERFUL MAN BILLY WAS! HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED BY SO MANY.

March 20, 2015

At our Saint Luke's University campus, Billy would organize the mandatory yearly physician competencies. We all were nervous about passing the skill stations as our jobs depended on it. You can see in the photo Billy is in the background easing the anxiety of this student that incidentally passed with flying colors. So much has been shared in regards to Billy's life contributions. I can't see how all of it can possibly be shared. It's up to all of us to be certain that Billy is memorialized long after this Saturday.

Keith Brooks

March 20, 2015

My friend and guide, I will miss you so deeply. You touched and enhanced thousands of lives, there was no where I could go, even Myrtle Beach SC, where I didn't meet people that knew and loved you.
Mary and Sara, you will always be family, and we are here for you. Loss shared is pain divided, love shared is joy multiplied. I love you my brother, Bill Guth

Sharon & Jeff Rogers

March 19, 2015

Jeff and Sharon Rogers are very sad to hear that this Beloved Man of many has gone. Rest in Peace Billy. You shall be missed. God Bless Mary and Sarah.

Carol Charles Hecht

March 19, 2015

Mary and Sarah,
Words cannot express how deeply sorry it was to hear about Billy. No matter how long it was since I saw him he always had a big hug and bigger smile for me when ever we ran into each other. From high school to standing up for best friends at their wedding to being god parents to their daughter our paths have crossed for over 30 plus years and when ever i think of him I smile. He has touch a lot of us is that way only Billy could.He will never be forgotten.

Lisa Keck

March 19, 2015

Mary and Sarah,
I couldn't believe the news when my parents told me that Billy had passed away. I used to work with him while attending Moravian College back in the mid 80's. I will always remember his infectious personality, his sense of humor, and dedication to anything and anyone in his life. He was a special person, and I am grateful to have known him.
Apparently God needed another angel, who better to answer the call.
He'll be missed by many.

March 19, 2015

Mary, Sarah and Guth Family,
Our world today is sadden by the passing of Billy. He has touched so many lives with his caring, zest for life and love.
I know he is not gone, he is only in the next room and we need to speak his name often and the memories we have.
Billy's love for you Mary and Sarah will get you through these trying days.
Your are all in our prayers.
Dennis, Judy and Becky (Hill) Swartz

John Wildermann

March 19, 2015

He was the best.

My deepest condolences to Mary.

Duke, Deb, Sarah, John and Kevin Lindsay

March 19, 2015

Our daughter Sarah was very sick and was admitted to St Luke's hospital. Billy came to visit every day with his kindness along with his contagious smile we all felt better every time he came through the door. Computers were new to the world and especially laptops. Billy brought his new laptop in and let Sarah use it during her hospital stay. He brought tools and took the phone box apart connecting some adapter for Sarah to dial into the internet. It worked great! It made our daughter feel very special; she remembers it to this day! Billy did put all phone wires back where they belonged after Sarah's full recovery. Billy; never we will forget.

D L

March 19, 2015

So a man falls breaking his ankle on Easton Avenue while walking his dog. Billy shows up to find a large wolf looking K-9 growling at him not letting us have a look at his owners ankle. Police assisted us with the dog, after splinting the injured man we placed him in the ambulance only to have another problem! That dog; now what? I placed the dog in back with the owner and Billy as we did not know what to do back then. We were only on the job about three months. That dog sat starring at Billy the entire time. No talking to this dog at all, if you looked its way it would show its teeth and growl. At St Luke's we took the injured man inside and mentioned to the staff about the dog. Billy placed the dog on a rail outside the emergency room. We resumed back into service only to get a call from Fountain Hill police yelling at us. It seems that dog would not allow anyone in our out of that emergency room.

D L

March 19, 2015

STUDENTS AGAINST DRUNK DRIVING (SADD)
A program now known worldwide that is provided to students by local Police, Fire and EMS organizations around the end of the school year. Long before this program went official it was provided to our Bethlehem High schools by Billy. He would have all seniors and juniors gather in the auditorium and explain what happens to students who make bad decisions when alcohol is involved. Billy was graphic and did not hold back at all. He shared true life motor vehicle crashes that occurred because a teen decided to be in a vehicle involving alcohol. Today this program is ongoing and still being done at our schools. Billy said it is an unmeasurable effort because you never can document how many students made good decisions and did not get in that car when alcohol was present. Billy always said if one teenager made a good choice then it is all worth it! I happen to feel Billy saved lives in and off of the ambulance, directly and indirectly!

March 19, 2015

I worked with Billy many years ago when I was a part time medic for the city. I always enjoyed shifts with him. He was open, personable and a very good medic

Castanzo Castellucci

Castanzo Castellucci

March 19, 2015

When Billy was hired in Bethlehem City long before we had Paramedics, he was hired by Castanzo Castellucci. Cass was a WWII veteran, Italian as could be and loved Billy very much! Cass would call Billy over for spaghetti and meatballs when on duty with the ambulance. Sometimes it would take hours for the meal to be completed because of ambulance calls that needed to be taken care of. Cass and his wife Loretta did not care if they reheated the meal 5 times. Cass was a mentor to his ambulance crew but had an extra fondness for Billy. If Cass was here today this would have broken his heart! Cass and Loretta were a big part of Billy's life and needed to be mentioned here today.

Bill Sarko

March 19, 2015

I have very fond memories of hanging out with Billy and the Sioux St. Gang. This was a long time ago when kids played on the street all day and into the evening. Billy was always a stand up guy and never changed. Our deepest condolences to the Guth family, from the Sarko family. Rest In Peace Old Friend.

Sandy Casella

March 19, 2015

Look to God for strength and comfort. I keep the entire family in my prayers.

Rick Sedler

March 18, 2015

So sorry to hear about Billy. He not only was a good man but a good friend. Everyone he touched will feel his loss. To his family and loved ones Your in my prayers. May God Bless you and help you through your loss.
Rick Sedler

Angel + Lourdes calderon

March 18, 2015

Mary and Sara,
Our family is deeply saddened by the passing of Bill. We'll always remember him fondly and feel lucky that we had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be missed very much in our heart .May your memories give you peace and comfort.

gordon Mowrer

March 18, 2015

I was so sorry to hear about Billy. He was a great guy. WE will all miss him. This is a loss for Bethlehem...I extend my sympathy to his famioy

Bobby Guth

March 18, 2015

Mary and Sarah, I have a lot of great memories of our visits to Bethlehem to visit Billy and his brothers as a child. I will never forget how they all would make me feel welcome! And I couldn't wait till we would go back again!
Billy may you rest in peace!
With all my love,

Kelly Brooks

March 18, 2015

Mary, Sarah and all of Billy's "family". I am still trying to image the world without Billy in it. His spirit and grace has rippled and weaved through many lives. My deepest sympathy.

Carol Kuivila

March 18, 2015

So sorry to hear about Bill. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Lisa McColl

March 18, 2015

Mary,

I have admired the love between you and Bill since I've met you. I love to see your face when you talk about him and hear you laugh on the phone at his jokes. Your relationship has reminded me on many days what we're here for. God bless you and Sarah. You have many prayers coming your way.

Welcome Home

March 18, 2015

May Christ's strength and compassion be with the family of William Guth during their time loss and sadness.
"God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted". Matthew 5:4
Bill was an extraordinary man, who gave freely of himself. I for one feel blessed having had the grateful opportunity to have known him. He brought calm, compassion, and laughter to even the worst of situations. You will be truly missed "Guthy". My prayers are with your family my friend.
Dave Brown

Jimbo Conahan

March 18, 2015

Mary Louise and Sarah,
We are shocked and saddened at the news of Billy's passing and pray that you are comforted by family and friends who love and care about you all. The Wilkes-Barre faction of your family wants you to know they are thinking of you during your time of loss as he and your family hold a special place in our hearts - Bill was a good man to be around and always had a humorous story to tell each time we got together. We all know that he helped so many, too many to count, in his career - all selfless acts to assist others - He will be truly missed.

Tom R

March 18, 2015

Bill is sadly missed. I only worked with him for the past couple weeks, at St Lukes, but it was long enough to realize what a great guy he was. God Bless him

Diane Guth-Ensley

March 17, 2015

Billy,

Loved you so very much. Not sure how I am going to make it but people tell me I'm a "mini" you. What an honor to be called that. I miss you every minute of everyday! Our talks, Tex's, your advice, telling me everyday how much you love me, and Giving me the greatest the greatest hugs in the world were priceless. You have always been there for me and my kids and I am the luckiest lady in Bethlehem to say, YES, BILLY GUTH IS MY BROTHER! Thanks for all you have done for everyone! Please protect me!

Forever in my heart, SIssy (Di)

Mary Beth Makoski

March 17, 2015

Dear Mary and Sarah and to all Bill's family: I am so sad to read about Bill's death--he was a sweet, wonderful guy and fun to work with way back in my SLH ER days. You all are in my thoughts and prayers...Mary Beth Makoski

Shirley Cech and Family

March 17, 2015

I would like to express my thoughts and prayers for the Guth family. God Bless!

Tiffanie Crundwell

March 17, 2015

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugh Tobin

March 17, 2015

Many years ago I was at a Lehigh football game and my son was around 7 he got stung by a bee we went down and bill took care of him and made he smile,after he was done he took him over to the refreshment stand and got him a soda and and a hot dog and with a smile said now get back up there and root on Lehigh,he will be missed.

Frank Maldonado

March 17, 2015

My deepest condolence to Billy Guth family. Is hard to believe he pass on. We know he in a better place know Billy from Pete's.

Mindy Garland George

March 17, 2015

Diane Sorry about your loss. Billy was a very special person not only to his family but to the entire EMS world. I'm sure your kids have fond and zany memories of their uncle.

Cheryl Molino

March 17, 2015

Diane I am so sorry to hear of your brothers passing.May your wonderful memories and love for him live forever on in your heart

Gary & Debbie Wrabel

March 17, 2015

Dear Diane,
We are sorry to hear about your brother. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Bob Donchez

March 17, 2015

My deepest sympathies to the Guth Family. Bill was an outstanding paramedic who served the city with integrity and professionalism. His love for Bethlehem was only exceeded by the love for his family. He will be missed by many.

Cheryl & Michael Oblick

March 17, 2015

To the Guth family, we would like to express our deepest condolensces. He was a heck of a Paramedic, friend and all around great guy. Those of us that had the chance to work with him are much more enlightened and he has made us all a better person. His funny humor was contagious.

Tami Brotosky

March 17, 2015

Billy you taught me so much about being an emt. Far more than the basics. You were an amazing person who brought so much light into so many people's lives. A piece of you will live on in all of us.

Dee and Dale Anthony

March 17, 2015

Guth Family....so very sorry to read of Billy's passing....we extend our deepest sympathy.

Rich Kuklentz

March 17, 2015

My deepest sympathies to Billy's family. Billy was a great guy, a consummate professional, and a dedicated medic. You will be missed my friend

Carol Viglianti

March 17, 2015

So sad to lose a friend. Even more sad to lose someone who had such a big heart. Billy, you gave so much love and dedication to those who worked with you and around you. You were an inspiration to many. A guide to others. There are foot steps that are going to be pretty hard to fill my friend. I will miss seeing your smiling face at St. Luke's.You worked a very long and dedicated tour. Now, rest and we'll take it from here. RIP my friend. I'm gonna miss you!
Carol Viglianti/EMT Nazareth EMS

Pearl Lance

March 17, 2015

Billy may the light of this candle guide you to your heavenly home. We shall all miss your wonderful smile and the love you gave to all of us. Mary and Sarah you are in my thoughts and prayers but he will never be gone as long as we keep him in memories and our hearts. I know God must have a special place for him a man who loved his family friends and even strangers. God Bless you Bill on Wings of Angels may you fly to your new home in Heaven.

Love You Billy Rest in Peace my dear friend.

Pearl

Beverly Mackaravitz-Recchiuti

March 17, 2015

It's hard to imagine that the Lord had other plans for you. You will be missed. May God wrap his loving arms around your family and give them peace and comfort as only he can. Let the memories that you left always bring a smile to their faces. One day we will meet on the other side. God Bless and RIP.

Tony & Tracy Roman

March 17, 2015

Our prayers go out to Mary and all of Billy's family. Billy had a heart of gold and he will be missed. Fountain Hill Rescue Squad would not have been the same without him.

D L

March 17, 2015

A woman calls our Bethlehem City police desk to ask for an ambulance indicating that her daughter has an earache. Billy and I responded to that residence without delay. It was raining heavy at the time, cold and miserable outside as well. We arrived at the home and went inside to find the child in her bed with moderate discomfort involving her right ear. This little girl was clearly scared with a low irregular cry. Billy took a blanket and wrapped up the child carrying her down from the second floor to the ambulance. He provided warm blankets as he took the wet one away and softly spoke to her indicating that everything was going to be all right. Billy looked into her ear and obtained her vital signs to be sure nothing else was going on with the child. The mother was up front with me as we made our way to St. Luke's hospital. At the hospital Billy made sure the emergency room staff knew this family of two had no ride home. After that little girl was seen and treated the mother and child were placed in taxi and sent back to the residence paid for by St Luke's. In hand were medications and those warm blankets.
Most folks would see the earache as a non-emergency and that an ambulance should not have been called.
Billy said that this was an emergency to that little girl! It was an emergency to that mother as well. They had no car, no way to get help! The little girl was in pain, what level of pain is not an emergency for a child?
The very next day that same mother called the emergency number again, only this time to be sure our police desk was to tell Billy to come over the house; his beans and rice were done and can be picked up.
Our city of Bethlehem is much better off today; this is only small example of what Billy did back in 1979. Billy's care for our residents was and still is second to none. Billy was contagious with his passion along with his majestic atmosphere of calm; situations he was confronted with over the years were not what any average person could ever deal with.
Today and every day after this Saturday we need to memorialize Billy. He is one of those who truly made a difference. Through his teachings I believe our Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services in this town are and will be better than most because of Billy Guth.
What Billy has done over the years always will be in the hearts of every public servant this city has; past, present and future.
Indeed a fallen hero that will be sorely missed by this great City of Bethlehem, all of its residents, visitors and tourists alike.

kathy ardoline

March 17, 2015

To all of Billy's family and friends, please know that so many, many people are sharing your grief today. It seems that everyone has a "Billy story" and I think that his legacy will be that he helped save so many lives but also touched the lives of so many of us who were privileged to call him "friend". He was a kind, fiercely loyal, and gentle soul with a laugh, smile, hug that helped make your day if you were lucky enough to be in his company - if even just for a few minutes. May you find peace in how much your "Billy" meant to so many of us. God Bless.

March 17, 2015

to the guth family I am so Sorry for the loss of your love one Hold on to your memories and let them guide you during this time of sadness I will miss you Billy rest in peace Love aunt ann

Judi, Maria, Kate & Dave Kravatz

March 17, 2015

Mary, Sarah & Family - our deepest condolences to all of you. EMS, FIRE & PD all lost a truly great friend, mentor & big brother who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders. We are grateful for the time he shared with all of us, his dedication and compassion lives on through those he met and inspired along the way. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING, Billy, we love ya!!

March 17, 2015

Dear Mary, Sarah, Dave and family,
So many memories.....meet ups at St. Luke's E.R., Fountain Hill EMS, Late out calls for CISM Debriefs, Dive Tables, Before Dutch Springs and after, and endless cans of Diet Coke only touch the surface of our Friendship between me and Billy. I miss my Friend.

Fr. Bill D.
Norfolk, VA

Tracy Hartman

March 17, 2015

Love and prayers to Billy's family. A great EMS instructor, a true gentleman, and fellow volunteer at Bethlehem Township. Please continue to watch over Bethlehem, and know you are forever in our hearts.

Mona and Gerry Kametz

March 17, 2015

Mary and Sara, so sorry for your loss. With our deepest sympathy.

Joe & Cindy Kramer

March 17, 2015

Our condolences to your family.

Leanne Kimmel Toth

March 17, 2015

I am sorry to learn of Bill's death. He was a wonderful person, and without Bill, my friend would never have had the opportunity to further her education in NC. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

March 17, 2015

Dear Mary and family, my sincere sympathy. Will always remember Billy with a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone. May he rest in peace.

Carol Eberts

March 17, 2015

Billy was one of the instructors in my EMT class back in 2000. I'll never forget the calls I went on with him, his kind and caring ways, and his great sense of humor. RIP Billy, you will live on forever in the hearts of everyone who knew you.

Showing 1 - 82 of 82 results

Make a Donation
in William Guth's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for William Guth

Mar

20

Viewing

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Downing Funeral Home

1002 West Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018-5068

Mar

21

Viewing

8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Christ Church UCC

75 E. Market St., Bethlehem, PA

Mar

21

Service

9:30 a.m.

Christ Church UCC

75 E. Market St., Bethlehem, PA

Mar

21

Burial

Holy Saviour Cemetery

Bethlehem, PA

Funeral services provided by:

Downing Funeral Home

1002 West Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018-5068

How to support William's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor William Guth's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more