Gerald E. Suppan, 84, of Catasauqua, died Aug. 17, 2014. He was the husband of Margaret (Wirth) Suppan who died in 2004.

He was the son of the late Ignatz and Catherine (Jolly) Suppan.

He was a 1948 graduate of Catasauqua High School. He was employed as machinist/foreman at the Standard Pump Aldrich Division of Ingersol Rand Inc., Allentown, for over 43 years, until 1993. He also worked part-time as a bartender at the former S&G Cafe, Allentown, and the American Legion Post 576, Allentown, for over 46 years.

He was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps serving during the Korean War. He was past president of the West End Veterans Association and served in various officer positions at H.L. Peter Post 576. He was a proud member of their honor guard.

He was a parishioner of St. Mary's of the Annunciation BVM of Catasauqua.

He was a well-known fastpitch softball player in the Lehigh Valley, competing in the Allentown Church League, the Allentown Industrial League, the Lehigh Valley Fastpitch Softball League and the East Penn Fastpitch Softball League. In addition, he also founded and managed the H.L. Peter Post 576 Legion baseball team.

He was an accomplished musician, playing in the Catasauqua Band for over 25 years.

He is survived by sons, Richard and his wife Lynda of Northampton, Keith of Whitehall, and Scott and his wife Maureen of Upper Macungie Township; daughter, Lisa of Catasauqua; four grandchildren, Joshua, Zachary, Matthew and Nicole; sister, Emma Kratzer; and brother-in-law, George Harmonosky. He was predeceased by a sister, Catherine Harmonosky.

Contributions may be made in his name payable to the American Legion Post 576 Allentown Honor Guard in care of the funeral home.

A funeral mass will be held, 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at St. Mary's Church, 122 Union St., Catasauqua. A calling period will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at the Brubaker Funeral Home, Inc., 234 Walnut St., Catasauqua, and again from 9 to 10 a.m. in the church Friday before the service.