Deborah A Lerch

Deborah A. Lerch, a compassionate spirit and beacon of warmth, passed away on December 3, 2024, at the age of 67, at her home in Macungie, PA surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 29, 1957, in Allentown, PA, Deborah was a devoted daughter to her late parents, Hugh E. and Jean E. (Yohe) Spang, and grew to be a figure of unwavering support and love in the lives of all who knew her.
Deborah's early life was filled with the joy of family and education. She graduated from Southern Lehigh High School before attending Allentown College. Her passion for helping others led her to a fulfilling career as a Licensed Practical Nurse at St. Luke's University Health Network, where she tended to her patients with an unparalleled level of care and empathy. Her colleagues and patients remember her as a professional who always went above and beyond, not just to treat, but to truly connect with and comfort those under her care.
Family was the cornerstone of Deborah's life. She was a loving wife to her husband, John "Jack" H. Lerch, and a nurturing mother to her children, Michael J. Katz, Keegan R. Lerch and spouse Antonio Rebimbas, and Katrina Schreefer and spouse Kyle Schreefer. Her role as a grandmother to Keira Schreefer was one she cherished deeply, and the bond they shared was a source of immense joy and pride for her.
Deborah is also survived by her siblings, H. Edward Spang and Carolyn Knise, and was a sister to her late siblings Suzanne Berry, John Spang, and Linda Nemchik,. She was an adored aunt to many loving nieces, nephews, Michael Olesh, Tara Olesh, Brenda Berry, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews, Brittany Olesh, Halie Cintron, Christopher Cintron, Nathan Olesh, and great grand-nieces Brielle Olesh and Belle Olesh, each of whom she treated with the same love and affection as if they were her own. She is also an aunt to her late niece, Paula Nemchik and late nephew, Bryan Olesh. Deborah is also survived by her loving dog, Buster, who was a constant source of joy and companionship.
Never one to sit idle, Deborah's life was rich with interests and hobbies that reflected her love for life and people. An avid baker and cook, she found happiness in creating dishes that would bring people together, making any meal feel like a celebration. Her love for the outdoors was evident through her enjoyment of camping, where she found solace in the serenity of nature.
A dedicated fan of Eagles football, Deborah's enthusiasm for her team was infectious, and she could often be found cheering them on surrounded by friends and family, making each game an opportunity for connection and community.
Her genuine interest in the well-being of others was always at the forefront, as she consistently placed the needs of those around her before her own. Deborah's legacy is one of selflessness and compassion. She had the rare ability to make everyone feel like family, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to cross her path. Her impact on the world was as profound as it was gentle, and her memory will continue to inspire acts of kindness and generosity in the hearts of those she touched.
Services: A Funeral Service will be held at 12 P.M. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home- 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 18018 where the family will receive relatives and friends from 11 A.M. until the time of the service. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantlemifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Deborah's name to Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund and/or Friends of Acadia National Park.
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