Andrew D. Behler

Andrew D. Behler, 67, of Palmerton, passed away Sunday, June 24 in his home, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Ann (Partel) Behler. They were married 44 years last August. Andy was vice president of Blue Ridge Pressure Castings, an aluminum die casting and machining company founded by his grandfather, Allen Behler. He served Blue Ridge for 45 years until retiring in 2018. He was proud of continuing and growing his family's business. After graduating from Palmerton High School, he earned an associate's degree in engineering from Wesley College, then bachelor's degrees in engineering and mechanical engineering from Lafayette College. He was a member of the North American Die Casting Association, from which he received the Herman H. Doehler Award. It is the Association's highest recognition of outstanding contributions to die casting through technical achievement, significant scientific contributions, and plant operational advancements. He was both nationally and internationally known as one of the top die casters in the industry. Andy was a lifetime member of First United Church of Christ, Palmerton, and a former Eagle Scout. He loved his family, enjoyed hunting, and spending time outdoors. He had a passion for drag racing his 1970 Dodge Challenger, Plum Crazy. He loved all facets of the sport, especially the design and engineering aspects. Born in Palmerton, he was the son of A. Donald and Mary (Santos) Behler of Palmerton. Survivors: Wife; daughters Katie and husband Kyle Davis, Marybeth and husband Aziz Attieh, and Andrea Dawn Behler; grandchildren Elsa and Allen Attieh; parents; sisters Donna and husband Butch Corell, Jane Balliet, Judy and husband Tom Bollinger. Services: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 30 in church, 457 Delaware Ave, Palmerton. Call 6-8 p.m. Friday, June 29 at T.K. Thomas Funeral Home, 145 Delaware Ave, Palmerton. Contributions: Palmerton Memorial Park Association, PO Box 33, Palmerton 18071.