Stephen M. “Budy” Budihas III, 74, of Walnutport, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Jean M. Connors. Born March 14, 1951, in Allentown, he was a son of the late Stephen M. Jr. and Stella C. (Uivary) Budihas. Stephen was a 1969 graduate of Northampton High School. Stephen dedicated 41 years of his career as a Mid-Atlantic Area Maintenance Manager with Penske Truck Leasing. Afterward, he continued working for another five years at Service Tire before retiring. He was a member of Queenship of Mary Church. Stephen was known for his generosity, fairness, and kind heart—always willing to lend a helping hand. At his core, Stephen was a family man who cherished every moment spent with his beloved grandchildren. He and his wife, Jean, shared a love for travel, creating lasting memories together. Stephen took pride in maintaining their home, especially enjoying time spent mowing the lawn. He had a passion for oldies music and loved watching movies—particularly Christmas films on the Hallmark Channel. He also found joy in reading and following racing. Stephen loved spending time with his friends, whether it was working on cars together or baking Christmas cookies and strudel in his kitchen each year. He valued the many strong relationships he had with both family and friends, cherishing each one deeply.
In addition to his wife, Stephen is survived by his daughters, Veronica, Renee, and Stephanie; grandchildren, Thanjhae, Evangeline, Alexandria, and Elijah; stepdaughters, Shannon and Cristin; siblings, Kathleen Matika, Nancy Wagner and husband, David, Thomas and wife, Phyllis, and James and wife, Roxanne; and several nieces and nephews. Stephen was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Jerry Matika.
Services: Family and friends may gather on Saturday, August 9th from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. in Queenship of Mary Church, 1324 Newport Ave., Northampton. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the church. Interment will be in Our Lady of Hungary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be presented to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Stephen’s memory. Online condolences may be offered below.
Read More
