George R. Kratzer Sr.

George R. Kratzer Sr., 86, of Allentown, passed away Monday, May 12, 2025 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of the late Mary Ellen (Eck) Kratzer. He was also the companion of the late Barbara Franclik. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Harvey and Grace (Werner) Kratzer. Before retiring, he worked for 30 years at Bethlehem Steel. Later, he worked as an assistant to Rep. T.J. Rooney and Rep. Joe Brennan. He was a member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church, Allentown. After graduating from Allentown High School, where he also played football, he served in the National Guard. He was a former boxer and was a boxing trainer in the Allentown area. He enjoyed cooking, traveling, dining out, family functions and sporting events. He always supported his grandchildren's events. He also held memberships with the local Allentown, Bethlehem and Catasauqua YMCA. He will be greatly missed by all. Survivors: son George, Jr. and his wife Carla of Plantation, FL; daughters Sherri Abruzzese of Saylorsburg, Shelly, wife of Glenn Schlegel of Catasauqua; brother Richard and his wife Cecelia; sisters Betty, wife of Robert Kushner and Nancy, wife of Gregory Geiger; grandchildren, Allyssa Berumen wife of Chris, Tierney and Anthony Abruzzese husband of Brielle, Mary Ellen and Dylan Thomas Schlegel; great grandchildren Lincoln, Carter, Dakota, Brynleigh as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brothers Robert, Eugene, and James, sisters Bonnie Kratzer and Delores Schwartz (James). Services: 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 22 at Trexler Funeral Home, 1625 W. Highland St. Allentown. Calling period will begin at 9:30 AM. Memorials can be considered to the American Diabetes Association, c/o the funeral home.