Michael M. Gnida, Jr., 85, of Emmaus, died March 19, 2022 in St. Luke's Hospital, Allentown campus. He was the husband of Mary Ann (Edelman). Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Elva (Reed) and Michael M. Gnida, Sr. He was a graduate of Kutztown University with a degree in Social Studies/English and earned a Master's degree from Temple University. Michael began his teaching career at Lower Marion Junior High School in 1963. He taught Social Studies at Southern Lehigh High School for 26 years, serving as Department Chair for 18 years. After his retirement from Southern Lehigh, he served as an adjunct professor at Delaware Valley College. He was a member of Fire Company #2 Emmaus, Mercantile Club of Emmaus, and Alburtis Rod and Gun Club. Michael was a Cold War veteran serving in the US Army Security Agency from 1955-1958, stationed at various bases overseas including Kagnew Station in Africa. Michael is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Ann; daughters Karen, wife of Joe Griffiths of Zionsville; Kimberly, wife of Daniel Dreher of Ironton; grandchildren, Chanel, Sierra, Skye, Michael, and Aaron; great-grandchildren, Lily, Emma, Ruth, Caroline and Avery. To continue his teaching legacy, Michael's wish was for his body to be donated to his alma mater, Temple University, for scientific research, through Humanity Gifts Registry. Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus, is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the charity of your choice.

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Published by Morning Call on Mar. 23, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Gnida

Sponsored by Schantz Funeral Home, P.C. - Emmaus.

18 Entries

Hank Knerr

March 16, 2023

As we plan our 50th reunion at SoLeHi, Mike will certainly be in our thoughts. Still missing the guy.

Hank

March 29, 2022

Such wonderful memories. Never had Mike for a history teacher but definitely for life with the plays he directed, Fiddler being his first and incredibly successful foray onto the stage, to wischnicht (sp?) to special songs like "Fill the World With Love," which I sang for him often. And his love for any song sung by Richard Harris. We remained friends for years, albeit somewhat sporadicly from the Emmaus fire hall to Eat n Park in Indiana. His inspirational spirit lives on in me, everyone he touched, and especially his family with Maryann at the head. L´chaim.

Becky Angstadt

March 25, 2022

My sincerest sympathy to Mr. Gnida's family. He was one of my favorite educators. He was a good one.
Becky (Hixenbaugh) Angstadt SLHS 1983

Karen Himmelsbach ( Dieffenbach class of 1979 SLHS.)

March 24, 2022

He was my Social studies teacher.
He was one of my favorites .
My condolences to his family.

Donna-Art Snyder

March 24, 2022

Maryann and your family
We were so so sorry to hear about michael´s passing. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

Dean and Rosemarie Seibert

March 24, 2022

Maryann and Family,

We were so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. Before we moved down to Florida, Mike gave me his recipe for hot mustard, I think of him every time I make it. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Philip Terhune

March 24, 2022

Mike was a remarkable colleague at Southern Lehigh with whom I spent a lot of time in "his" office between classes, before and after school, and during free periods. A group of us even ate lunch in that refuge when our schedules allowed. Mike was a wonderful conversationalist, well versed in many subjects, never without opinions, and always humorous. He was just fun to be around. He took the education of his students seriously and was always the voice of reason and perspective. Of course, he would laugh at any sentimentality here, but he enriched the lives of everyone who knew him--and I dare him to deny it.

John Leeser

March 23, 2022

My deepest condolences to Mike´s family. We worked together on Liberty Trails at Southern Lehigh. I always enjoyed talking with him. He was a nice man.

Dave Moyer

March 23, 2022

As a member of the senior class of 1970, Mr. Gnida was the spearhead and inspiration of our senior class trip which, for many of us, was the highlight of our high school years. That trip was an unforgettable one-day experience in Bermuda. May the many years of memories comfort his family as this most difficult time.

Former Student

March 23, 2022

Mr. Gnida was one of my favorite teachers at Southern Lehigh. Armed with incredible knowledge, a quick wit, and honest sincerity, he made class so enjoyable. I wish his family peace and love during this time of grief.

Link Penny

March 23, 2022

Many fond memories of Mr Gnida, he was one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers to his family

Shelly Paradysz Bartz

March 23, 2022

I am so sad to hear this. Mr. Gnida was such a huge part of my HS life. He was always so kind and so encouraging in drama production. My heart and prayers are with you. God Bless, Mr. Gnida.

Linda Talaber Hoffman

March 23, 2022

I had the pleasure of being in Mr. Gnida's SS class back in the 60's. He was a great teacher. I remember him well! I'm so sorry for the loss of a great man and great teacher.

Grateful

March 23, 2022

Sir,
Thank You for Your service to our country.

God Bless You!
God be with your family!

Sincerely,
A Grateful American

A grateful American.

March 23, 2022

Thank You for your service.

DONNA (KEMPTON) TORRES

March 23, 2022

I had joy of having MR GNIDA for SS at SLHS. I am a teacher now thanks to many amazing ones in this district. Prayers and sympathy to the family.

DONNA (KEMPTON) TORRES
CLASS OF '85

Larry Angney II

March 23, 2022

I had the honor of having him as a SS teacher at Solehi as well as a music appreciation teacher that I had as an elective. He was awesome and made a lasting impression. I wish his family and friends peace and comfort during this difficult time. Rip Mr. Gnida.

Donna Muth-Przybylkiewicz-Reidenhour

March 22, 2022

Kim, Karen and family...I´m saddened to read of your dads passing. May your memories help you through this time of sorrow... my thoughts and prayers are with you

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