William R. Shunk, Jr.

William R. Shunk, Jr., 90, of Bethlehem, passed away Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at his residence. He was the husband of Shirley I. (Feltault) Shunk. Bill was born in Bethlehem on July 3, 1933 to the late William, Sr. and Helen (Doncsecz) Shunk. He served our country in the United States Army Reserve Corp as 1st Lieutenant. Bill worked for the former Bethlehem Steel as a Superintendent of the Iron and Brass Foundries. He was a 1951 graduate of Liberty High School and graduated with a Metallurgical Engineering degree in 1955 from Lehigh University. He enjoyed playing football in both high school and college.

Bill was dedicated to youth and community service. As a counselor and Bethlehem Boys Club director, he guided many young lives. Committed to fostering talent and sportsmanship, he coached CYO sports for 20 years at St. Anne’s including football, basketball, wrestling, and baseball. He also coached football at Bethlehem Catholic High School for 9 years, influencing many young athletes with his enthusiasm.

His love for music and singing was evident through his active participation with St. Anne's choir, Mora Chorus, Lehigh Choral Union, and Barbershop Society to name a few. His melodious voice uplifted many and added harmony to countless gatherings.

Survivors: in addition to his wife of 66 years; children: Regina (Bill) Casey of North Andover, MA, Teresa (Joe) Ocampo of Ann Arbor, MI, Chris (Jen) Shunk of Easton, Joe (Marli) Shunk of Switzerland; siblings: James Shunk of Paupack, Alice (Dave) Soplop of Nazareth; 11 grandchildren; 2 great grandsons. Predeceased by a daughter Dianne Rimkus.

Service: Family and friends are invited to his viewing, 9-10:30am Thursday, December 14, 2023, at Connell Funeral Home, 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am at St. Anne Catholic Church, 450 East Washington Ave., Bethlehem. Burial will be held at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. Online condolences may be offered at connellfuneral.com.

Contributions: in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to School Sisters of St. Francis, 395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem, PA 18017.