John F. Simitz, 86, died April 22, 2025. He was the husband of Eileen J. (Klepeisz) Simitz for 56 years.

Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Ludwig and Emma (Herbst) Simitz.

He was a 1959 graduate of Central Catholic High School, Allentown.

He served his country with distinction in the U.S. Navy, where he learned his craft and held the rank of ensign 4 photographer 3.

His career as a photographer at The Call Chronicle and The Morning Call spanned more than 38 years. He also served for 20 years as photographer for the Whitehall Township Volunteer Fire Company. He worked as a photographer for the Diocese of Allentown and The A.D. Times.

For nearly 50 years, he was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church.

He was an Eagle Scout.

He is survived by a daughter, Julianne of Whitehall; a sister, Marie of Whitehall; three nieces, Maryann Krobath, Kathy Berner and Patricia Starner; and five nephews, Micky Moran, Terry Moran, David, Joseph and Louis Jr.

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

Contributions may be made to Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation, 4573 S. Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620, or online at mds-foundation.org; or to the church, 4102 S. Church St., Whitehall, 18052.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home Inc., Whitehall.