Helen A. Decker

Helen A. Decker, 77, of Bethlehem died Monday August 3, 2009 at the Hospice House of the VNA of St. Luke's. She was born on May 16, 1932 in Bethlehem daughter of the late Herbert and Myrtle Bouger Fritchman. She was the wife of the late Andrew Decker. Helen worked as a deli clerk for Sims Quality Market for 26 years retiring in 1998. Helen spent much of her retirement years traveling across the U.S. and other parts of the world with her beloved late companion Bernard "Bernie" Tomalavage. She was a member of the University Parish of Holy Ghost and a veteran of the US Marines serving during the Korean Conflict. Helen was a very active volunteer for Musikfest for 18 years. She was always a happy person and truly loved to be with people. She was devoted to her family and friends and will be missed by many.

She will be lovingly remembered by her son, Thomas J. Decker and wife Judy of Kunkletown, Pa., brother, Robert Fritchman of Bethlehem, sisters, Dorothy Kantor , Lottie Shannon, and Irene Fritchman all of Bethlehem, 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by a son, Andrew, brothers, Walter, and Wesley, and a sister, Martha Barbarics.

A prayer service will be held 9:30AM Friday August 7, 2009 at the Connell Funeral Home 245 E. Broad St. Bethlehem, Pa. 18018 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial 10AM at the University Parish of Holy Ghost 417 Carlton Ave. Bethlehem, Pa. 18015. Calling hours will held from 7-9PM Thursday evening at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made to the Cancer Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital- Muhlenberg 2545 Schoenersville Rd. Bethlehem, Pa. 18017