John F. Simitz

John F. Simitz

April 9, 1939 - April 22, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of John F. Simitz, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, on April 22, 2025, at the age of 86. He was the devoted and loving spouse of Eileen J. (Klepeisz) Simitz of 56 years and proud father of his only daughter Julianne, both of Whitehall. John was the youngest son of the late Ludwig and Emma (Herbst) Simitz.

Born at home in Allentown, John was a lifelong resident of the Lehigh Valley, where he left a profound impact on his family, faith community, and the world of photography. He is survived by his loving sister Marie Simitz of Whitehall, nieces Maryann Krobath, Kathy Berner, and Patricia Starner, and nephews Micky Moran, Terry Moran, David Simitz, Joseph Simitz, and Louis Simitz Jr. He was predeceased by his loving sisters Emma Krobath and Josephine Moran, as well as his brother Louis Simitz.

As a young man, John rose to the ranks of Eagle Scout, demonstrating his dedication to service and excellence. A graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School, Class of 1959, John went on to proudly serve his country with distinction in the U.S. Navy, where he learned his craft and held the rank of Ensign 4 Photographer 3. He also served for 20 years as photographer for the Whitehall Township Volunteer Fire Company.

For nearly 50 years, John was a devoted parishioner of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church. He spent much of that time serving as a photographer for the Diocese of Allentown and The A.D. Times, capturing significant moments in the life of the church, its leaders, and its people. His career as a photographer at The Call Chronicle and The Morning Call spanned more than 38 years, where he documented countless stories from newsworthy events to notable public figures while also creating lasting memories for hundreds of families through his own photography business. John's work was not just his career, it was his lifelong passion.

Those who knew "Johnny" will always remember him as the sweetest, kindest, and most gentle soul. He was rarely seen without a camera slung around his neck, always ready to capture the moment. His humor, his warmth, and his unshakable love for his family, faith, and friends will be deeply, deeply missed. John had a way of making everyone around him feel special, and his jokes - often silly, always funny - will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

John's life was one of hard-work and sacrifice; a testament to love, service, and a lifelong pursuit of capturing the beauty and tragedy in this world. He was truly the best husband and father anyone could hope for, and his legacy of kindness, generosity, and faith will endure always.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Msgr. Daniel J. Yenushosky on Tuesday April 29, 2025 at 10:30 am in Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church 4102 South Church Street, Whitehall, Pennsylvania 18052, where his viewing will begin at 9:30 am. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Our Lady of Hungary Catholic Cemetery Northampton.

Flowers are welcome. For those who wish to honor John with a memorial contribution, his family suggests a donation to the Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation 4573 South Broad Street Suite 150 Yardville, New Jersey 08620 online at www.mds-foundation.org or Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church 4102 South Church Street, Whitehall, Pennsylvania 18052.

The Gilbert Funeral Home of Whitehall

is honored to handle his arrangements