Guy Kratzer

Rev. Guy M. Kratzer
Former PA State Senator, Rev. Guy M. Kratzer, 72, of Allentown died Monday, September 30, 2013 in Allentown. He was the husband of Suzanne (Schappel) Kratzer. They were looking forward to celebrating their 41st wedding anniversary on October 20. Born in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Dr. Guy L. and Kathryn H. (Miller) Kratzer. A 1959 graduate of William Allen High School, he graduated in 1963 from Muhlenberg College. An ordained minister, Guy continued his education at the Evangelical Congregational School of Theology, Myerstown graduating in 1967 and the Princeton Theological Seminary graduating in 1968. He received his Masters in World Religion from Temple University in 1973. Rev. Kratzer began his Pastorate at Cetronia Evangelical Congregational Church and served as Pastor of St. Pauls Evangelical Congregational Church, Egypt. He served as Assistant Pastor of the former Seibert Evangelical Congregational Church and the former Salem United Church of Christ both in Allentown. A two term elected Allentown City Councilman, 1977 to 1982; Rev. Kratzer served as a Republican member of the PA State Senate from 1983 to 1986. In the 1970s Rev. Kratzer volunteered and was instrumental in organizing Operation Rice Bowl, an interfaith fundraiser during the Lenten Season to help provide food to the needy in the World focusing on Bangladesh and India. He was so moved by the humanitarian need in these countries having visited them in 1975 and again in 1976. He was also a volunteer for the American Cancer Society. He was a member of the former Seibert Evangelical Congregation Church and attended First Presbyterian Church, Allentown. A talented musician, Guy played the pipe organ and enjoyed taking voice lessons. He loved opera and followed the musical careers of organists Virgil Fox and Pierre Cochereau. Guy and Suzanne were blessed over the years to be the proud parents of several Bedlington Terriers including their current dog, Meadow Sweet Frosty Spring. Survivors: Beloved wife, Suzanne; cousin, Carol Kratzer Smith of Fort Collins, CO; beloved Bedlington Terrier, Frosty. Services: Funeral Service 10:30 a.m., Saturday in the sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church, 3231 W. Tilghman St., Allentown. Call 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Saturday in the church. Arrangements by J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown, www.jsburkholder.com. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Refugee Ministry at First Presbyterian Church, PA 18104.