Humberto "Papa" Gomez

Humberto Gomez, 74, of Allentown, passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital-Allentown Campus. Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, he was the son of Beatriz Escobedo de Cardona, and the late Humberto Gomez. Known to his family as Papa, he was married to Karen (Michael) Gomez for 51 years, a story that started in the Colombian jungle. Papa was a big, strong and warm presence with a grin and sparkle in his eye, who made everyone he met feel welcomed and valued. A retired elementary school counselor, he taught his grandkids to ride bicycles and play chess, cooked for his family, went on 40-mile bike rides with his sons-in-law, swam the butterfly, climbed mountains, sought out archeological sites, and was always ready to help at a moment's notice. In addition to his wife Karen, Humberto (Papa) is survived by his mother Beatriz Escobedo de Cardona; his daughters Stefani Gomez (Rami Nasr), Jennifer Gomez (Thomas Christophel), and Meggan Gomez (Graham Gentz); brother Ricardo Gomez; his grandchildren Frida Gomez Nasr, Zoya Gomez Nasr, Miles Gomez Christophel, Elias Gomez Christophel, and a grandchild arriving soon; and more primos, sobrinos, and friends than you could count. He was predeceased by his brother Guillermo (Memo) Gomez, and his stepfather Gonzalo Cardona. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM, at Jordan U.C.C., 1837 Church Rd, Allentown, PA 18104, at the Harting Outdoor Chapel at Lookout Hill. Follow the signs from the parking lot for "Summer Service." There will be benches, but feel free to bring a camping chair. In case of rain, the service will be held inside the church. There will be time for fellowship and visiting with the family immediately after the service. Zoom link for the service will be provided here. A Spanish translation of the service will be available. In lieu of flowers, please send any contributions to the Jordan UCC Special Mission Fund, to be donated to local charities in Humberto's name.