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Kevin Earley Obituary

Kevin J. Earley, 60, passed away suddenly on Sunday, October 1, 2017, in Allentown. He was the sixth of ten children born into the family of Thomas M. and Marry (Tighe) Earley of Allentown, and the loving husband and 21-year companion of Monica (Shuhler) Widdowson of Allentown. A 1975 graduate of Allentown Central Catholic HS, he retired from Bradco Supply Co. and was an independent landscape contractor. Along with a deep love for family and friends, Kevin energized all in his orbit with originality of humor, omnipresent music, gypsy joys of "going mobile" in his RV, and his beloved hilltop retreat "Big Bear" where he and Monica welcomed all. His love touched countless souls and will live forever, equaled only by our eternal affection for this astonishingly unique and absolutely unforgettable son, brother, father, husband and friend. See you again up the road, Kev. Survivors: In addition to wife, Monica; son Drew T. Earley of Allentown; stepsons Carl S. Widdowson of California, Samuel L. and wife Samantha Widdowson, and grandson, Otis of Colorado; sisters: Kathleen Earley (Richard) Lanning of Mechanicsburg, PA, Patricia Earley (Gary) Ward of Allentown, Maureen Earley (Michael) Keenan of Allentown, Maryellen Earley (Frank) Massi of Baltimore, Jane Earley (Kelly) Minnick of Lancaster, Margaret Earley (Dale) Stein of Atlanta; brothers: Michael Earley of Atlanta, Thomas (Nancy) Earley of Allentown and Jon (Missy) Earley of Atlanta. Also 20 nieces and nephews, their children, and countless friends. Services: A Celebration of Life will be held TBA at a later date. Family and friends will be notified. Contributions: Allentown Rescue Mission, 355 Hamilton St., Allentown, PA 18101 and Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 N. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19123.

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Published by Morning Call on Oct. 4, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Earley

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Molly Fleming

September 28, 2019

Kev...was thinking about you not too long ago while listening to Nils Lofgren. Reminded me of parties at the house downtown with you and Michael. The world down here misses you Kev. Keep everyone up there in line till we meet again. Molly Funari Fleming.

May 12, 2019

Don't why I was thinking about Kevin Earley the last couple of days, and thought I'd take a look. Alas, this must be he. We spent the summer of 1973 or 74 together at YCC camp in Lamar, PA.

I visited in Allentown later that year and met at least one brother and one sister. The album with ZZ Top's La Grange had just been released and we wore it out. That was our last our last contact.

Adios my old friend.

David Pinelli
Formerly of Lock Haven, PA

Rick Wisser

December 5, 2017

To all of Kevin's family and friends,

I'm so sorry I did not hear of Kevin's passing until today. I am heart sick. We were good friends back in the day. We lost touch quite a few years ago, but I have lots of fond memories of the times we shared. He was truly one of a kind - just a really good guy! My heart goes out to his family. All I can say is thank you for sharing him with all of us.

Dennis Lucy

November 27, 2017

I'm shocked and saddened to hear of Kevin's passing. Although I haven't seen Kevin for years, he will be remembered as one of the good guys.
My sincere condolences to the Earley family.

Phil Yoder

November 2, 2017

To Monica and the entire Earley family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Kevin's passing. He was a very kind, special and wonderful person. I was a neighbor of Kevin's for two years and reconnected with him in the late seventies when he worked with me on several painting jobs. Later I met Monica at on one of his summer parties and reconnected. He will be missed but always remembered.

Barbara Yoder

November 1, 2017

Dear Monica, Maryellen, Maureen, and all the Earleys,

I am thinking of you all with deepest condolences.

When I was ten years old and moved to 16th Street, for the first time in my life I had a neighborhood full of friends, many of them Earleys. Kevin was the first and best guy friend I had ever had, and for a few years we shared secrets and laughter, sitting in the grass on summer afternoons across the street from my house until the rest of the gang arrived and the games began. We had a blast in our neighborhood, and Kevin made our gatherings especially fun.

Since I moved across the country many years ago I've had only a few opportunities to see Kevin over the years. On all those occasions, his joie de vivre inspired joy and laughter. He holds a special place in my heart.

Barbara Yoder

Kevin Goddess

October 25, 2017

My deepest condolences to Monica, Drew and the Earley family.

I was lucky to move to 16th and Walnut streets when I was 11 years old, diagonally across from the Earleys. Over the years they came to feel like a second family. There was energy and love in that house that kept me coming back, and I spent many nights and holidays there, talking and laughing until the sun came up.

I met Kevin playing football on the street during the first summer I lived there. In short order, he became my best friend and it lasted for almost 50 years. He was always there when I needed him and by me at the milestones of my life. We rambled through the mysteries, dreams, and challenges of life, sometimes drifting apart for a while, but always picking it up like we spoke the day before. We shared a similar sense of humor, a strong love of music, and lately, senior wanderlust. In May, we celebrated turning 60 with a trip to Paris and Amsterdam, where we spent an afternoon at the Van Gogh museum. Here is a meaningful quote about loss from a Van Gogh letter to his brother Theo.

And the memories of all we have loved, stay and come back to us. They are not dead but asleep, and it is well to treasure them.

I treasure my many great memories and I feel so lucky that we met on that summer day. I see his love of family, his humor, his charm, and his goodness. I know everyone who came into contact with KE would agree.

And so I'll miss my dear friend, but I won't say goodbye, because I know he is only sleeping.

Dana Robinson Grim

October 8, 2017

Dear Monica and the Earley family,
Heartfelt condolences on the loss of Kevin. Your wonderful obituary was such a great tribute to him. There is a hole in your family that will never be filled. May sweet memories, love of family, and the thoughts and prayers of friends ease your sorrow. Peace. Dana Robinson Grim

Mark Ttrinkle

October 8, 2017

Monica and Earley Famiy:

My sincere thoughts and prayers to you and your families during this difficult time. Kevin was a kind, pleasant and genuine person who always had a smile when you would see him although that doesn't come as a surprise as his mom and dad set the example and instilled it in the whole Earley family. RIP Kevin and God Bless All of You.

Anne Urello Roche

October 8, 2017

My sincerest sympathy and condolences to the entire Earley family. So many fond childhood memories of Kevin.
Anne Urello Roche

Kim Blake

October 7, 2017

Tom, just wanted you to know that my thoughts are with you & your entire family. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

John and Nancy Melaney

October 7, 2017

It is hard to imagine not seeing Kevin's infectious smile ever again. He had a wonderful spirit and was truly a kind soul. Kevin was the kind of guy that even if you had not seen him for years, he would ask how you were, wait for a response, and then flash you that famous "Earley smile." If only there were more people like Kevin, the world would be a better place. We mourn the loss of our friend, but embrace the memories of such a fine person. Thank you, Kevin, for being part of our lives.

October 7, 2017

Patty, Maureen, Buddy, and family,

We are so sorry for your loss.
"They whom we love and lose are no longer
where they were before. They are now,
wherever we are." Kevin will be forever
in your hearts, forever loved.
Thinking of you.
Jeanne & Tom Weiser

October 7, 2017

Dear

October 6, 2017

Patty, Buddy and the entire Earley family.
Our heartfelt condolences to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Kevin. My God watch over you during this unbearable time.
Sue and Jack Wenner

Kev and his beloved TR looking as cool as ever.

Maddy Minnick

October 6, 2017

Love reading all the great stories of my uncle Kevin from everyone. He touched so many lives in the best way. We miss his laugh and big smile already.

Kate Follweiler

October 6, 2017

Dear Jane and all of the very loved Earley family,
I am so very saddened to hear of Kevin's passing. What a wonderful man the world has lost. I have such fond memories of Kevin from grade school to high school. He was a kind soul who always had a smile or laugh to share with you.
I'll never forget my freshman year at CCHS... Kevin was a senior, and he asked me to dance at our Homecoming... I think I floated onto the dance floor! I cherish that memory.
And when, sadly, your loving Mom, Mary passed away, I happened to be up north visiting so I attended her service... as I walked up the steps of St. Catherine's church, Kevin was the first to greet me with the warmest most genuine hug of a long lost friend.
He certainly had a way of making a person feel noted and welcome.
We lost a good soul in Kevin.
My love and prayers go out to all of you as I fondly cherish some of my best childhood memories with the Earley family.
All my love,
Kate Follweiler
aka Kathy Temprine

Al & Lisa Anderson

October 6, 2017

Dearest Monica and the whole Earley Family,

We were shocked and of course saddened to hear the news of Kevin. Where do you begin to express your feelings of such a great friend. Kevin was a love! He was always happy to see you and interested in what you were doing. He will definitely be missed by all. Forever in our hearts and in our minds. Rest in Peace, Kevin!

Lisa (Billera) & Al Anderson XOXO
P>S> Monica, let us know if you would like to have anything at the Post.

October 6, 2017

Dear Monica and Early Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. It was just a few weeks ago I ran into Kevin after years of not seeing him. He was such a delight. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.

Cathy Squires

Ron and Kathy Caldarelli

October 6, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Earley family at this most difficult time

Beth Harron

October 5, 2017

I am truly heartbroken to hear of this kevin Oddly enough I was just wondering why I haven t seen you of late. Please look after all who loved you and will greatly miss you!❤

Dan & Robin Slifer

October 5, 2017

To all the Earley Families,
There are no words........Kevin was one of a kind,a great guy and will be missed by many. God Bless you all and your in our prayers. The Train ride to Florida and the parties for John's wedding with the families will live in our memories forever.

October 5, 2017

Hello to the entire Earley family, please know we are among the many who mourn with and are praying for all of you. We were neighbors and lived on S.16th St. in Allentown. May you know the comfort of Our Father. Frank and Loretta Farley

John Crevin

October 5, 2017

To the Earley family my deepest condolences I loved this guy if ever you wanted a laugh go hang with Kevin he was first class he was a great friend buddy and I were just talking about him at our neighborhood reunion and I told buddy I wanted to see him. I'm pretty sure the message was never sent the world lost another great person rip Kevin may God bless you and keep you

Tom Hrabal

October 5, 2017

Great friend. Great teammate.Great man from a great family. My life was better having been in the presence of Kevin Earley and the Earley family. We love you and will always remember you Viking and Wildcat brother. Tom Hrabal and family

Ed Kratzer

October 5, 2017

So sorry to hear Kevin passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with the Earley family.

Howard Kistler

October 5, 2017

When they talk about people as just a great guy with a heart of gold, this is the guy they're talking about. We were gym rats at the Y during our youth, and Kevin was just always the nicest most considerate guy you could imagine, a real credit to the people who raised him. He watched out for the younger guys too. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wonderful family and friends, truly and great loss and a sad day, but we were all better for having know him, and for showing us all that it is possible to be a totally decent human being.

Kim Garger

October 5, 2017

To the entire Early family, I know how your hearts must be aching now. You all have many wonderful memories of fun, loving times to hold onto forever. Hold those wonderful memories tight during these hard times of grieving, then use them for fuel to live life honoring Kevin's good spirit. Much sympathy to all of you, Kim Garger

Cathy Jenkins

October 5, 2017

My thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire Early family.

Don and Sharon Buxton

October 5, 2017

Monica and the Earley Family
So very sorry to read of Kevin's passing. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Sylvia Mayernik Pituch

October 4, 2017

To all of Kevin's loves and friends ~

Indeed a shock to have heard of Kevin's passing. And at such a difficult time words can seem empty. Here is with hope that the thoughts and prayers from all who knew and loved Kevin will be felt, to carry you through these coming days.

October 4, 2017

To the entire Earley Family,
Deepest sorrow, from the Wynne Family.
Nancy

October 4, 2017

Monica and Earley gang...too many memories to send...loved Kev...how could you not??? Hole in many hearts today...

John and Donna Sabo

October 4, 2017

Kevin, I'll never forget the night John Hamel,
your big sister Pat and I had pizza and beer on Tony Toole who placed that hundred dollar bill under your chair. The issue was Tony passed away two weeks prior. Remember!!!!
Donna and I will miss you truly and you and all of your family and friends are always in your hearts..

Jane Jerant

October 4, 2017

Dear Monica, Drew, and all the Earley family,

I am saddened by the news of Kevin's passing. May you be held in the peace and comfort of your family and friends and the joyful memories of Kevin.
With sympathy and prayers.

Jane

Dan Chlebove

October 4, 2017

My sincere condolences to the whole Family.

Laurie Albright

October 4, 2017

To the entire Earley family, I wish you peace thru this difficult time. Kevin was an awesome guy. He will be missed. Love and hugs, Laurie Albright.

October 4, 2017

My deepest sympathy to your family at this difficult time. I worked at Cathedral School with Mrs. Earley and so valued her and also admired her family. God Bless You All. I never met Kevin, but I knew Mary was his mom.
Sincerely,
(Mary Ann Milkowich - retired 1st grade teacher
- that worked at Cathedral, with Gary Ward, for a couple of years!) " May Kevin rest in peace."

Louise Holmes

October 4, 2017

Patti, my deepest sympathy at this sad time. May your memories help you through this difficult time
Louise Holmes

Randi Wasiewucz

October 4, 2017

Dear Monica and Earley family, many hearts are broken. My deepest sympathy.

October 4, 2017

My thoughts and prayers go out to Kevin's wife and family. As noted in his thoughtful obituary, if you were in the same room with Kevin, you were laughing- that's one memory I have of him, and the other is his huge heart. When I was having a conversation with Kevin, he always made me feel like I was his best and closest friend in the whole wide world. Please take good care of Kevin's family, Lord, he's one in a million and will be missed forever. Love Always, Joanne(Birchak)Owens

Payne Shelton

October 4, 2017

Rest in peace, sir.

October 4, 2017

I am terribly sorry to hear this news. I'll always remember Kevin as just a truly great guy. An overused expression perhaps but for Kevin it was real. Always a smile, always a kind word and always asking about your life because he was honestly interested. He was special, and able to make you feel special. A very rare quality indeed. Our prayers are with Monica and their family and of course all of Kevin's brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and pals. May God be especially gracious to you Kevin.
-Ange Caggiano

Bert Mukkulainen

October 4, 2017

Bert Mukkulainen

October 4, 2017

Bert Mukkulainen

October 4, 2017

I have such fond memories of Kevin from our trips to the Chesapeake Bay. Still laughing at some of his jokes! I have included two photos of Kevin from our trip eight years ago.

Deepest condolences and sympathy to the entire Earley family. Much too soon.

Jim Young

October 4, 2017

Monica and the Early Family, I am sorry for your loss, Kevin will be surely be missed.

Hmmm and I thought it was just the other day that he tried to leap over that table.

Joe Billera

October 4, 2017

My sympathy and sorrow go out to the Earley. Very sad news.

Joe Kochan

October 4, 2017

My sympathy goes out to Pat and the entire Earley family. May his memory be eternal.

rem ledererer

October 4, 2017

and we all shine on like the sun and the moon and the stars

October 4, 2017

Monica,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Love,
Mary and Tony Calcagni

Diane Caldarelli Woodring

October 4, 2017

Dear Earley Family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Sincerely,

Joanne & Joe Geist

October 4, 2017

Monica & all the family, It is with the deepest sadness & sympathy we join all who loved Kevin so very much to send you our condolences. He was a kind & gentle soul & the best friend anyone could ask for. We are heartbroken. But I know he's making music up in heaven. Rest in peace Kev. We love you always.

John Hamel

October 4, 2017

Goodybye my dear friend. You added so much fun and joy to my life. I will miss your smile.

Joe Birchak

October 4, 2017

To Kevin's Family and friends,

My deepest sympathies for this loss. Kevin and I were quite close in years past and I feel a true sense of loss despite what time and distance does to keep people separated. He was a special soul, as is his entire family. I will miss him and will celebrate his life along with all of you.

Krisitn & Kirk (Kercher) Koehler

October 4, 2017

To the Earley Family,

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Kevin's passing. He was so full of life and a joy to see. Kevin was like a brother to me and I will truly miss seeing his smiling face.
Prayers to you all.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Ruth Warehime

October 4, 2017

My deepest sympathy to all of Kevin's family and friends.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Krista Miller Casey

October 4, 2017

Pat, Buddy,and all the Earley family:

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin. His infectious smile, sparkling (with mischief) eyes, and incredible wit was so much a part of his being, he was just awesome to be around. He could not see you for a while, and when you would meet up somewhere, you would get his heartfelt hug, and the conversation would be as if you had been in his company just the day before. I spent some time with him at a band reunion earlier this year, and the he was just a light personality in such a way, that you just wanted to stand and talk.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kevin was the best looking and nicest guy in the class of '75, a comment I told him many times. I am so happy I reminded him when I saw him.

Love and prayers to you all.

October 4, 2017

Monica - and to all of the Earley family. I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Kevin was a remarkable man. You are in my prayers.
Marie Wanuga

Scott & Linda Mitchell

October 4, 2017

Pat, Gary and family,

We are saddened to hear about Kevin's passing.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

October 4, 2017

A light is gone from our lives!! Rest well, Kevin. You are with loved ones in heaven enjoying them again, staying up till all hours and talking, catching up with your parents, I am sure!! Let these thoughts be a comfort to all of us, family and friends that will no longer have you in our lives. With love, Sue and Charlie Trinkle

Pam Ott-Knappenberger

October 4, 2017

So sorry for your loss
Pam and Gary Knappenberger

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