Gerald L. Schlonecker, 85, of Coopersburg and a former longtime resident of Emmaus, died Feb. 25, 2014, in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township. He was the husband of Florence "Dolly" E. (Kauffman) Schlonecker. The couple celebrated 64 years of marriage in October 2013. Born in Emmaus, he was the son of the late William N. and Estella (Hertzog) Schlonecker.

His life was guided by his commitment to Jesus Christ as his Savior, his love for the Lord and his selfless dedication to his family. He was an elder and lifetime member of Bethel Bible Fellowship Church, Emmaus, where he served in many capacities both locally and denominationally.

He was employed in food service at the Allentown Hospital for 31 years until retiring as manager.

He is survived by his wife; children, David and his wife Roxy; Kay and her husband Alan Fleming, William and his wife Patrice, Karen and her husband Jeremy DeLong, and Kathy and her husband Stephen Cassel; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the church.

Arrangements were made by the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, Emmaus.