Elwood Douglas Ehrgott Jr.

Elwood Douglas "Woody" Ehrgott, Jr., a respected veteran, devoted family man, and esteemed community member, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, in his hometown of Bethlehem, PA. Born on July 22, 1932, to the late Elwood D Ehrgott, Sr. and Dorothy (Marsh) Ehrgott, Woody's life was one marked by dedication, service, and warmth.
Woody was a proud graduate of Liberty High School's class of 1949 where he lettered in football and track and later furthered his education at Northampton Community College, where he earned an Associate's degree in Business Administration. His commitment to his country was evident through his over 20 years of service in the United States Navy, where he began as a medic and ascended to the rank of Chief Petty Officer. His valor and leadership were recognized by many during his deployments in both the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War.
Upon his return to civilian life, Woody's work ethic and expertise led him to a fulfilling career at Lehigh Valley Hospital. As a business administrator in the Department of Surgery, he played an instrumental role during the establishment of Lehigh Valley Hospital, Cedar Crest. Woody was at the helm as the administrator of all ambulatory services, including the emergency room and same-day surgery at the inception of the Cedar Crest site until his retirement as the administrator of the Department of Surgery in 1996. His colleagues affectionately knew him as "Chief," a title that encapsulated both his military background and his authoritative yet amiable demeanor.
Woody's personal life was filled with joy and love. He was a beloved husband to his late wives, Anne Renee (Smith) Ehrgott who passed away in 1981 and Irene (Kinney) Danko who passed away in 2022. He was a guiding light to his children, Brian Ehrgott, Elizabeth "Beth" Moore and her husband David, Andrew Ehrgott and his wife Michele, and stepson George Danko and his wife Claire. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Matthew, David, Andrew, Alexa, Travis, Tawnie, and great-grandchildren, Nolan and Brooke. He was predeceased by his brothers, Robert and Donald.
Woody was a man of faith and a longtime member of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church, where he found solace and community. His interests reached beyond his professional and family life, as he was an active participant in his church and broader community. Those who knew Woody understood that his life was a testament to his resilience, compassion, and unwavering integrity. His stories of service and adventure captivated his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, who saw him as a hero in both his nation's eyes and their own. Woody's guidance and wisdom were the cornerstones of his family, and his influence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Services: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church- 1861 Catasauqua Road, Bethlehem, PA 18018, where the family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Interment with military honors will conclude services at Bethlehem Memorial Park- 1851 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. A memory tribute may be made at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution can be made in Woody's name to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation via mail to 1775 Semper Fidelis Way, Triangle, VA 22172 or online at https://www.marineheritage.org/.
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