Susan L. Vitez

Susan Vitez, a beacon of kindness and friendship, passed away at her home on February 3, 2025, at the age of 68. Born on July 31, 1956, in Bethlehem, Susan was a lifelong resident whose love for her community was as steadfast as her devotion to her family and friends. Susan was the cherished daughter of the late William L. and Mary (Gorcsan) Vitez. She shared an unbreakable bond with her loving brother, William D. Vitez, and his wife Maria. Her niece, Lauren Elise Vitez, held a special place in her heart, as did her many extended family members and a multitude of friends who were blessed to know her. A proud graduate of Liberty High School's class of 1974, Susan's thirst for knowledge and commitment to education led her to Moravian College and later to Temple University, where she earned her bachelor's degree. Her academic journey did not end there; she pursued and obtained her master's degree from the University of Scranton, a testament to her belief in lifelong learning. Susan's professional life was marked by her tenure at the Bethlehem Steel, where she contributed her talents and hard work. Her career, however, was only one aspect of her life. Susan's true essence was reflected in her unwavering service to her family, community and church. A faithful and devoted member of the former St. John's Windish Lutheran Church, Susan's spiritual journey continued at Blessed Trinity Lutheran Church after St. John's closed its doors. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her service. Her involvement in the community was extensive and heartfelt. Susan served on the board of the Fountain Hill/Green Meadows Cemetery, was a proud member of the Society of St. Joseph of Bethlehem, and contributed her time and energy to the social committee at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church. Her dedication to preserving history was evident in her active board role with the Steelworkers Archives and associated Steeples and Steel tours. Susan's commitment to fostering strong international ties was showcased as a board member with the Bethlehem/Murska-Sobota Sisters City Association. She also poured her energy into supporting numerous South Bethlehem charities, always striving to make a difference in the lives of others. Music was one of Susan's greatest passions. A gifted violinist, she found joy in playing and was a proud member of the Lehigh University Philharmonic, where she brought melodies to life through her instrument. Her love for music extended beyond performing-she was a dedicated supporter of the arts in her community, especially with the Zoellner Arts Center, Arts Quest, and Musikfest. Whether through playing, listening, or encouraging young musicians, Susan believed in the power of music to inspire and bring people together. She was also an enthusiastic supporter of the Liberty Hurricane Wrestling Club and a devoted fan of Lehigh Wrestling. Those who knew Susan would describe her as loving, kind, and friendly-a woman whose presence could light up a room and whose generosity knew no bounds. Her legacy is not only in the projects she supported or the organizations she helped build but also in the countless lives she touched with her warmth and compassion. Susan's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, service, and community. Her memory will be treasured, and her impact will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Susan lived a life full of purpose and joy, and though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for her family, friends, and the entire Bethlehem community. Services: A Funeral Service will be held at 11 A.M. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018, where the family will receive relatives and friends from 9 A.M. until time of the service. Burial will follow at Nisky Hill Cemetery. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Animals in Distress, P.O. Box 609, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg, PA 18036 or to the Society of St. Joseph of Bethlehem, PO Box 1367, Bethlehem, PA 18016. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Susan, please visit our floral store.