Ernest J. Gagliardi, of Macungie, died unexpectedly Nov. 19, 2016, at Lehigh Valley Hospital. He was the husband of Judy (Venezie) Gagliardi. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Anthony and Fern (Christofaro) Gagliardi.

He graduated from Allentown High School.

He was a very proud member of IBEW Local 375 for 43 years.

He was a gentle man who above all loved his family. He opened his heart and his home to many people of different faiths and ethnicities.

In retirement, he had a passion for woodworking. His projects enrich many households and lives. He not only gave of his carpentry talent, he gave of himself. He never hesitated to rewire an electrical project, fix a pipe, repair a furnace, move a family in and out of apartments, coach a grandson’s baseball team, attend a dance recital, take and accompany someone to the doctor and generally support those around him with his quiet strength.

During his life he was a talented sportsman. He bowled a 300 April 13, 1965 when it meant something to bowl a 300. Picking up golf later in life--it became a passion, including a hole-in-one.

He is survived by his wife; daughter, Lisa and her husband Simon Saliby; son, Anthony and his wife, Michele; grandchildren, Amanda and Alyssa Saliby, Jason and Nicole Gagliardi; extended family, Ko and Nay Ta Gay, Pri Pri and Mu Han, Lah Paw and Ner Doh Moo, Thaw and Eh Plah Tay and Chet Lah and Mary and Noah Paw; in-laws, nieces and nephews and his beloved dog, Molly Marie. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas and sister, Lucia Realo.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to First Presbyterian Church of Allentown, 3231 W. Tilghman St., Allentown, 18104 and the refugee program at Bethany Services, 534 W. Chew St., Allentown, 18102.

A funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Nov. 23 in the sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church of Allentown, 3231 W. Tilghman St., Allentown. A calling hour will be held 9 to 10 a.m. Nov. 23 in the church. Arrangements were made by the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown.