Ralph Springer Jr., 79 of New Smithville, formerly of Bethlehem, died peacefully Nov. 15, 2013, in Whitehall Manor, where he was a guest for the past three years.

Born in Bethlehem, he was a son of the late Ralph and Esther (Johnson) Springer Sr.,

He and his wife Machie (Yoshiyama) Springer were married 44 years at the time of her death in 2001.

A devoted member of the UCC congregation of Ziegels Union Church, Breinigsville, he was a former church treasurer and member of the consistory.

A proud veteran, he served in the Army Signal Corps as a cryptographer stationed in Korea and Japan.

He was an industrial analyst at Bethlehem Steel Corp. for 34 years in the industrial engineering department before retiring in 1986.

He enjoyed being a volunteer for Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County.

His survivors include a daughter Amy E. Hower and her husband, Blair, of Kriedersville; grandchildren Andrew and Kelly; sister Jane Driscoll of Coopersburg; and nieces, nephews and their families.

He was predeceased by brother Eldridge and sister Althea Gross.

Contributions may be made to the church memorial fund.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.