John F. Simitz, 86, died April 22, 2025. He was the devoted and loving spouse of Eileen J. (Klepeisz) Simitz for 56 years. He was the youngest son of the late Ludwig and Emma (Herbst) Simitz.

Born at home in Allentown, he was a lifelong resident of the Lehigh Valley, where he left a profound impact on his family, faith community and the world of photography.

As a young man, he rose to the ranks of Eagle Scout, demonstrating his dedication to service and excellence.

A graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School, Class of 1959, he went on to proudly serve his country with distinction in the U.S. Navy, where he learned his craft and held the rank of Ensign 4 Photographer 3. He also served for 20 years as photographer for the Whitehall Township Volunteer Fire Company.

For nearly 50 years, he was a devoted parishioner of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church. He spent much of that time serving as a photographer for the Diocese of Allentown and The A.D. Times, capturing significant moments in the life of the church, its leaders and its people.

His career as a photographer at The Call Chronicle and The Morning Call spanned more than 38 years, where he documented countless stories from newsworthy events to notable public figures while also creating lasting memories for hundreds of families through his own photography business. His work was not just his career, it was his lifelong passion.

Those who knew “Johnny” will always remember him as the sweetest, kindest and most gentle soul. He was rarely seen without a camera slung around his neck, always ready to capture the moment. His humor, his warmth and his unshakable love for his family, faith and friends will be deeply, deeply missed. He had a way of making everyone around him feel special and his jokes — often silly, always funny — will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Julianne, of Whitehall; sister, Marie, of Whitehall; nieces, Maryann Krobath, Kathy Berner and Patricia Starner; nephews, Micky Moran, Terry Moran, David, Joseph and Louis Jr.

He was predeceased by sisters, Emma Krobath and Josephine Moran; brother, Louis.

For those who wish to honor him with a memorial contribution, his family suggests a donation to the Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation, 4573 S. Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, N.J., 08620, online at www.mds-foundation.org or Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, 4102 S. Church St., Whitehall, 18052.

The Gilbert Funeral Home of Whitehall is honored to handle his arrangements.