Martin C. "Marty" Gilchrist

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martin C. "Marty" Gilchrist, 86, who departed this life suddenly on September 27, 2025. A longtime resident of Bethlehem, Marty was greatly loved and will be missed. Martin was born May 9, 1939 in rural Walker, IA, to farming parents John and Wilma Gilchrist. He remained proud of his humble Iowa upbringing. Martin graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, with minors in civil engineering and architecture. He then went on to receive a master's degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Illinois. Martin cofounded Urban Research & Development Corporation (URDC). in 1968. As a Registered Landscape Architect, he oversaw the planning and development of countless projects - from residential, educational, industrial, and commercial developments to new towns, major resorts, state parks, parkways, and environmental centers. He was widely recognized as an expert in recreation, urban and rural planning, and community development in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. Evidence of his work and influence is clearly visible in many areas locally. Urged by his passion for community, he served on numerous boards, helping to shape the future of development in the Lehigh Valley. Marty was blessed to spend 45 wonderful years of marriage with his loving wife, Barbara. Marty met Barbara on a ski club trip to Vermont. Together they enjoyed boating, skiing and traveling. They explored every continent, skied numerous mountains and sailed the Chesapeake Bay and beyond, cherishing friendships, music, culture, and community. For years, they volunteered at Muskifest together. They also appreciated their Bridal Path community where Marty volunteered his time on nearly every committee. They took great joy in their cats and pet bird and supported local animal shelters. Marty's interests included painting, drawing, boating, skiing, military and revolutionary history and college basketball and football. He was a lifelong learner with endless curiosity, even learning to fly in his younger years. Marty will be most remembered for his warm and friendly conversations. His greatest joy was found in talking to others and meeting new people. With Marty, striking up impromptu conversations was the norm. He would turn complete strangers into lifelong friends everywhere and anywhere. With his quick wit, gift of conversation, mischievous smile and zany sense of humor, he would have others laughing in seconds. He made others feel special and made them feel heard. He was there for others with advice, a helping hand or just his time. And who can ever forget the phone calls from Marty singing "Happy Birthday to you " Those phone calls were appreciated by many. Marty is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Gilchrist of Bethlehem, PA; two brothers, Robert Gilchrist (Penny) of Springville, IA, and Hal Gilchrist (Jane) of South Padre Island, TX; and three daughters, Kim Gilchrist, M.D., of Media, PA, Renee Patel (Vikram) of Mount Laurel, NJ, and Christine Gilchrist of Montoursville, PA. Affectionately known as "Grandpa Pal," he was the proud grandfather of fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A Memorial Service celebrating Marty's life will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at the Cantelmi-Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem. Family will receive relatives and friends from 10:30 am until the start of the service. Private interment will take place at a later date at the convenience of the family. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Animals in Distress, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg, PA 18036 or The Center for Animal Health & Welfare, 1165 Island Park Road, Easton, PA 18042. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Martin "Marty", please visit our floral store.