Russell D. Kerchner, 80, of Allentown, died May 19, 2026. He was the husband of Judith E. Kerchner (Weider) for 61 years. He was born in Allentown, the son of the late Charles F. and Beatrice B. (Laudenslager) Kerchner.

He was a graduate of Emmaus High School where he was an outstanding member of the wrestling team.

After high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He was a Vietnam War Veteran and served on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid.

After his service to our country, he served the public with the Allentown Police Department. While serving as a police officer, he attended evening classes and graduated from Lehigh County Community College. He had many roles in his career at APD from a foot patrolman, to motorcycle officer, as the property clerk, to detective and eventually lieutenant. In 1985, he received the Policeman of the Year award. He retired in 1994.

He loved all animals but especially his own: Tyson, Toby, Bear, Bella, Starman, Cuddles and Nelly.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons, Gregory (Ruth), Steven, Timothy; grandchildren, Lauren, Bethlyn, Michael, Marcus (Nikki), Melissa, Emily, Jacob, Kaley; great-grandchildren, Nevayah, Gryffin Russell, Ethan, Raiden; great-great-grandchild, Silo; sister, Eldri L. Hangey (Lowell); brother, Charles F. Jr. (Marjorie).

He was predeceased by sisters, Emma C. and Rita A. Furst (Robert).

The family will be hold a celebration of life to honor him.