Mark James Reccek, 42, of Bath, died Dec. 17, 2017, while in the care of Lehigh Valley Hospice.

Born in Fountain Hill, he was the son of Violet (Janzso) Reccek. He was raised by his grandparents, Violet and Geza Janzso.

He was a 1994 graduate of Liberty High School.

He served in the U.S. Marines from 1996 to 2000, where he also served as a big brother.

He graduated from the University of Detroit, where he earned his law degree, and later Lehigh University, where he earned his master’s degree in political science.

He worked as a journalist and editorial assistant for the Lehigh Valley Press weekly newspapers, as well as a freelance reporter for WFMZ and Saucon Source. He earned several Keystone awards for his writings in the Catasauqua Press. He also worked for the New Bethany Shelter.

He was active in the live Bethlehem Christmas pageant, the Catasauqua community and the high school.

He was a member of Promised Land Church of the Nazarene, Bethlehem.

He is survived by a sister, Donna and her husband William Kukor and their son Michael, of Bath; an uncle, Geza and his wife Diane Janzso and their daughters, Holly Hess and Carrie Janzso; a best friend, Michael Stametz; and many other loving family members and friends.

He was predeceased by a sister, Brenda Reccek.

Contributions may be made to Catasauqua High School (scholarship fund) in his name and sent to Catasauqua Area School District, Administration Office, Attn: Beverly Druckenmiller, 201 N. 14th Street, Catasauqua, 18032.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Dec. 22 at the funeral home, 500 Linden St., Bethlehem. Calling hours will be held 6-8 p.m. Dec. 21 and 10 a.m. Dec. 22 until time of service in the funeral home.

Arrangements were made by Cantelmi Long Funeral Home.