Ray “Spider” Christman, 79, of Germansville, died Jan. 27, 2026, at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest, Salisbury Township. He was the husband of Gail (Smith) Christman to whom he spent the last 49 years together. Born in Pennsburg, he was the son of the late Paul H. and Edith I. (Christman) Christman.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War era. He worked for Bethlehem Steel Corp. for 31 years before its closing in 1995. He and his wife co-owned and operated Venture Farms in Heidelberg Township for 39 years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughters, Michelle L., of Allentown, Lori A. Buzinski (Dave), of Germansville, Amy S. Chassard (John), of New Tripoli; siblings, Judy Rex (Dale), of Emerald, Jeff (Gail), of Germansville, Gail Berger (Kim), of Aliquippa, Gary (Sally), of Fort Myers, Fla.; grandchildren, Nathan, Jared, Aidan, Aubrey, Addison; many nieces, nephews, extended family.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. No public calling hours.

The Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., in Schnecksville, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at www.heintzelmancares.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Sanctuary at Haafsville and/or Lehigh Valley Hospice, both in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, 18078-0196.