Norman Ray Benner, 78, of Macungie, died peacefully in the Lehigh Valley Hospital, May 26, 2017. He was the husband of his college sweetheart Joan (Buckno) Benner with whom he celebrated 56 years of marriage last October. Born near Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Dr. N. R. and Lorelle Benner.

He held both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Penn State University. He worked for Westinghouse and Allied Chemical before becoming a McDonald’s owner-operator for over twenty years. Upon his retirement, he moved to the Lehigh Valley to be closer to his family.

He was a true “Blue and White” fan who also cheered for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates.

A lover of books, he was a member of three different libraries and was an avid reader of both classic and contemporary works. He enjoyed board and card games, reveled in a good argument, was a staunch Republican and took pride and pleasure in his family.

He is survived by his wife; son, Craig and his wife Ellen (Maranki); grandchildren, Ashley and Meagan, of North Carolina; daughter, Deborah and her husband Ralph (Paolone); grandchildren, Garrett, Gabrielle and Gavin, of New Jersey.

Contributions may be made in his memory to the Ronald McDonald House.

Services are private. Arrangements were made by the Stephens Funeral Home, Allentown.