Published November 23. 2021 07:29AM
Lavona M. Baatz, 77, of Macungie, died Nov. 20, 2021, in the comfort of her home and surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late Thomas R. Baatz, who died in 2007. Born in Northampton, she was the daughter of the late Harvey and Freda (Kresge) Henry.
She worked for more than 20 years for Lower Macungie Township, retiring as the township secretary in 2008, during which time she acquired a multitude of certifications. Additionally, she was a Notary Public and an Avon representative for several decades.
Over the years, she was very active in her community, volunteering with the historical society and was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star, the planning commission, the Lower Macungie Seniors and the local Repulican party.
She enjoyed the arts, performing with the Macungie Minstrelaires.
She practiced her faith with the First Presbyterian Church of Easton, singing with the choir.
In her retirement years, she was lucky enough to enjoy her passion for travel, with Jim at her side, visiting 37 of the 50 states.
She is survived by her second husband, in the eyes of God, James Middendorft; son, Matthew T. and his wife, Michele, of Macungie; daughters, Jessica L. and her partner, Johnathan Herbein, of Emmaus, Tamatha and her husband, Mark “Skip” Urffer, of Macungie; grandchildren, Candice and her husband, Zachary Frey, Clayton and Lauren.
Contributions may be made to the Gift of Life.
Funeral services will be held 8 p.m. Nov. 24 at the Trexler Funeral Home, 1625 Highland St., Allentown. Calling hours will be held 6-8 p.m. Nov. 24 in the funeral home. Arrangements were made by the Trexler Funeral Home, Allentown.