Stephen J. Donchez

Stephen J. Donchez, 92, of Bethlehem, died on Monday, February 9, 2009 at his residence.

He was born in Bethlehem, the son of the late Joseph and Catherine Szukics Donchez..

Stephen was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Katherine Nederostek Donchez.

He retired from Bethlehem Steel Co. after 43 years of service in both the Open Hearth and BOF. Stephen was also a member of the United Steel Workers of America.

He was a former member of St. John Capistrano Catholic Church, Bethlehem.

Stephen was a member of the Jefferson Democratic Club and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Area #284.

He enjoyed golfing in his free time and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Stephen will be lovingly remembered by his five grandchildren, James J. Heckenberger Jr. and his wife Michele of Mertztown; Steven C. Heckenberger and wife Keri of Stockertown; Melissa M. Adams and husband Timothy of Nazareth; Michele M. Spade and husband Joseph of Bethlehem and Melinda M. Burger and husband David of Northampton. Stephen is also survived by seven great grandchildren, Sadie, Lauren, Katelyn, Jarod, James, Keiraleigh and Kylynn as well as his son-in-law, Gilbert Smith of Northampton; caregiver, Tesh Notutela and his nieces and nephews.

Stephen was predeceased by his daughter Rita Heckenberger-Smith; son-in-law, James J. Heckenberger, Sr.; sisters, Irene Haney and Catherine Dietrich and brothers, Charles, Joseph, Julius, Frank, and D. John.

Friends may call on Thursday, February 12, 2009 from 6-8PM at Connell Funeral Home, Inc. 245 E. Broad St. Bethlehem and again on Friday, February 13, 2009 from 8:30-9:30 am in the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday February 13, 2009 at 10 AM at Incarnation of Our Lord Parish, 617 Pierce St. Bethlehem.

Burial will be held at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association 65 E Elizabeth Ave Ste 502, Bethlehem PA 18018