Dennis Ochs

Dennis J Ochs , 80, of Bethlehem, died Friday, February 7, 2025 at Bethlehem South Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Ruth ( Oswald) and Adam Ochs. He was married to Mary-Jo (Billas) Ochs with whom he would have celebrated 35 years of marriage in June.

Dennis worked as a chef for several restaurants in the Lehigh Valley. In 1994, he became an American Certified Chef for Berks and Lehigh Counties and Program Director for Lehigh Valley Chefs Assembly. In 1993 and 1994, he received the President's Appreciation Award and in 1995, he was voted Chef of the Year.

Dennis also volunteered his time serving on the GIVPCA Board of Directors from 1993-1995 and the Penn's Farms Condo Association from 1999-2005. Dennis also volunteered his time to play Santa Claus for many children's programs especially Sayre Child Center.

Dennis was also an avid hunter and fisherman.

Dennis is survived by his brother, Ricky Ochs and his wife, Stella, sisters-in law, Catherine, wife of Joseph Bentz, Anne Billas, and Lisa (Billas) Riband, nieces, Amy, wife of Walter Seals, and their daughters, Tessa and M'Leesa Seals, nephews, Joseph C. Bentz, Jr., Eric Seals, wife Syrena and their daughter, Hazel. He is also survived by a daughter, Gwen Ochs Marks.

Dennis was preceded in death by his son, Dennis J.Ochs, Jr., sister, Sara Faye Moyer, brothers, Theodore Ochs and Adam Ochs, Jr., and brother-in-law, MIchael J. Billas.

A calling hour will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 10-11:00 AM at Connell Funeral Home, 245 E. Broad Street, Bethlehem, Pa 18018, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethlehem South Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 3rd floor , 2021 Westgate Drive, Bethlehem, Pa 18017.