Walter F Mannherz

Walter F. Mannherz, a cherished soul whose life journey began on June 29, 1935, in Maplewood, NJ, and gracefully concluded on October 29, 2024, in Easton, PA, left a legacy of love, dedication, and spirited community involvement. He walked through life with an unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and country, leaving behind memories that will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Walter was the beloved son of the late Emil and Maria (Brandauer) Mannherz and the devoted brother to his late sister, Esther M. Thorpe and late brother Elmer Mannherz. He was the heart and soul of his family, a loving husband to his late wife, Ruth C. (Conaway) Mannherz, with whom he shared nearly 60 years of marriage following an 8-year courtship that began in their 8th-grade classroom. After Ruth's passing on April 1, 2017, Walter found love, companionship, and joy with Louise B. Kinter of Bethlehem.
He was a proud father to Daniel C. Mannherz of Wesley Chapel, FL, and Catherine M. Hunt and husband David A. Hernandez of Lakeland, FL. He was also a loving step-father to Jennifer Kinter of Bethlehem; Jill Bebey and significant other Mark Paolini of Fairfield, CT; and Rob Kinter and his wife Stacey of Kernersville, NC. Sister-in-law Gertrude, of Southampton, PA, also survives him. Walter will be fondly remembered by his loving step-grandchildren: RJ Bebey, James Kinter, Cara Bebey, Justin Kinter, and Stephen Paolini. Walter's familial bonds were a testament to his deep sense of loyalty and affection.
Walter's educational journey was marked by achievement and ambition. He graduated from Cheltenham High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Lehigh University. His pursuit of knowledge continued at New York University, equipping him for a distinguished career.
His professional life was characterized by service and leadership. Walter honorably served our country in the United States Army, setting a precedent for a lifetime of dedication to his community and nation. He worked as a Technical Sales Engineer at Philadelphia Gear Corp (MFG Co.), and retired as a Division President at SKF finishing off a hardworking and memorable career. After retiring, Walter worked as a Manufacturing Rep for Mannherz Associates, a company he owned and operated with pride.
Walter's commitment to his alma mater and fraternity was unwavering; he was a proud member of the Chi Psi Fraternity at Lehigh University. His volunteerism at the Lehigh Sports Center demonstrated his enduring support for collegiate sports. His contributions were recognized when he was honored with the alumni award from Lehigh University, a testament to his lasting impact.
His love for golf was matched only by his dedication to his faith community at Grace Church. Walter's voice resonated in the church choir, and he served both as an usher and trustee, embodying the spirit of service. He was also a past member of the Saucon Valley Country Club.
Walter's leadership skills shone brightly as he chaired the reunion committees for both Cheltenham High School and Lehigh University, later becoming president of both committees. His organizational talents ensured that these events were not just occasions for reminiscence but also celebrations of lifelong connections.
An avid traveler, Walter traversed the globe many times, embracing new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm and curiosity. His adventurous spirit was a source of inspiration to his family and friends, encouraging them to explore the world with the same zest he did.
Services: A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, December 6 at Grace Church- 4301 Hecktown Road, Bethlehem, PA 18020. Private Interment will be at the convenience of the family. Walter's services have been entrusted to the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Walter's name to Grace Church mailed to 4301 Hecktown Road, Bethlehem, PA 18020 and/or Lehigh University Scholarship Fund mailed to Lehigh University Information Processing 306 S. New St., Suite 500 Bethlehem, PA 18015-1652.
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