Sterling Edward Bruch Jr.

Sterling Edward Bruch, Jr., a proud veteran, devoted family man, and lifelong Bethlehem resident, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 94. Born on June 4, 1930, in Bethlehem, Sterling was the son of the late Sterling Edward Bruch, Sr. and Helen R. (Bartholomew) Bruch. He shared a loving marriage with his late wife, Elda Eva (Reichard) Bruch. After serving his country with honor in the United States Army, he returned home and began a long and respected career with Bethlehem Steel. As Blast Furnace Supervisor, he became a key figure in the local industry, earning the admiration of his colleagues until his well-deserved retirement. Sterling was a faithful member of St. Thomas UCC in Bethlehem. In his spare time, Sterling found great joy in working on and caring for his antique cars. His '64 Mustang and '67 Grand Prix were more than just vehicles-they were prized reflections of his appreciation for craftsmanship and history. More than anything, Sterling cherished his family. He was a steady, guiding presence, offering wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support through every chapter of life. Survivors: He will be remembered by his children Edward Bruch and his wife Mary Ann of Whitehall, Gary Bruch and his wife Cindy of Palmerton, Robert Bruch of Northampton, Beverly Josar and her husband Larry of Bethlehem, Gloria Jean Hurley and her husband Richard of Easton and David Bruch and his wife Nannette of Bethlehem; siblings Albert Bruch and his wife Terry and Dorothy Repash and her husband Rick; grandchildren Jennifer, Owen, Claire, Holly, Matt, Amy, Brad, Cortney, Natalie, Derek and David and great grandchildren Peyton, Isabella, Serenity, Xavier, Luke, Jacob, Grayson, Faith, Sarah and Parker. Sterling was preceded in death by his great grandsons Vincent and Thomas. Services: A Funeral Service will be held at 11 A.M. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 where the family will receive relatives and friends from 10 A.M. until time of the service. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Memorial Park. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cancer Support Community of the Lehigh Valley, 944 Marcon Blvd #110, Allentown, PA 18109 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 399 Market Street, Suite 250 Philadelphia, PA 19106. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sterling, please visit our floral store.