Two of the region’s most trusted family-owned funeral homes have joined together in a succession partnership. Connell Funeral Home of Bethlehem (est. 1919) and Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory of Hellertown and Pennsburg (est. 1955) are uniting under the Connell Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory banner, representing nearly 175 years of combined service to the Lehigh Valley, Saucon Valley and Upper Perkiomen Valley.

This partnership is more than a business merger, it is a promise to uphold and strengthen the values of compassionate care, personalized service and community support that both the Connell and Falk families have lived for generations.

The Connell family has guided families in Bethlehem for over a century, beginning with Francis J. Connell, Sr. in 1919. Now in its fourth generation, led by Jamie, Matt and John Connell, the Connell team continues to bring award-winning service, trusted expertise, and a commitment to helping families with elevated care and attention to detail.

The Falk family began serving Saucon Valley in 1955, when Franklin and Betty Falk opened the Hellertown funeral home. Frank and Donna Falk carried on the tradition of service in Hellertown, and their Pennsburg location was added in 1982. In 2003 they introduced an on-site crematory; one of the first in the region. The Falk family’s enduring dedication has made them a pillar of comfort and kindness for generations.

While leadership and resources are unified, the principles families trust will remain in place:

Frank and Donna Falk will remain in active roles, ensuring familiarity and continuity. John Connell will continue his position as Supervisor of Bethlehem, which will remain Connell Funeral Home; Frank Falk will retain his position as Supervisor of Pennsburg, which will continue to be known as Falk Funeral Homes and Crematory; and Chadd A. Hamman, a lifelong Saucon Valley resident and longtime funeral director in Hellertown will serve as supervisor of the Hellertown location, now branded as Connell Falk Funeral Homes and Crematory.

The Connell family now owns and operates its own crematory. From every location loved ones never leave the care of the Connell Falk team, providing the assurance and peace of mind so deeply valued by today’s families.

“We are deeply grateful for the trust families have placed in both the Connell and Falk names,” said Jamie Connell. “This partnership allows us to honor that history while looking forward; expanding what we can offer and ensuring every family receives the highest level of care, support, and attention.”

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