Gloria Marie Stein

Gloria Marie Yanek Stein of Bethlehem was received into the loving embrace of our heavenly Father on February 19, 2012 after a long courageous battle with cancer. She was born in North Catasauqua, Pennsylvania on December 10, 1934 to the late Joseph S. and Mary A. Bobalik Yanek. She graduated as valedictorian, and head cheerleader from Catasauqua High School, Class of 1952. After graduation she became a legal secretary in the office of Butz, Hudders in Allentown before marrying the love of her life, her devoted husband, Martin, "Marty" Stein, on December 27, 1958 with whom she shared 53 years. Upon her marriage, she became a proud Navy wife residing in Long Beach, California. Gloria was a recognizable face at the election polls in Bethlehem having worked elections spanning 30 years. After raising her children, Gloria found further fulfillment, and derived much happiness, devoting her energies to the children of Mercy Special Learning Center in Allentown as a dedicated teacher's assistant for 23 years. The arrival of her granddaughters, Rachel and Stephanie, brought a special joy to her life. Retiring for health reasons in August 2011, she greatly missed her "kids" and the amazing, caring staff.

She was a member of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church. Gloria enjoyed road trips across the USA, sending greeting cards to remember everyone's birthday, watching sports, especially the New York Mets, Little League Baseball, the San Francisco 49ers, Notre Dame Football and spending time with her family. Along with her husband, Martin, she is survived by her daughter, Michelle Stein Miller and husband, David of Bethlehem; a son, Michael and his wife, Michelle, and their daughters, Rachel and Stephanie, also of Bethlehem; a sister, Rosalie Carl and her husband, William of Catasauqua; many cousins, nieces, and nephews especially Jeffrey and Joan Carl of Allentown; and her loving supportive Mercy "Family".

A visitation will be held, Wednesday, February 22, 2012 from 6-8 p.m at the Connell Funeral Home, 245 E. Broad St., Bethlehem, PA 18018

Another viewing will be held from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Thursday at Notre Dame of Bethlehem Catholic Church, 1861 Catasauqua Rd. Bethlehem, PA 18018 followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.

Burial will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mercy Special Learning Center, 830 South Woodward St. Allentown, PA.

Online condolences may be made at www.connellfuneral.com.