Kathleen (Zednik) Wenzel, 85, of Emmaus, died peacefully Aug. 3, 2026. She was reunited with her beloved husband of 65 years, the late Joseph Wenzel, who died earlier this year. She was born at home in Bethlehem to the late John and Olga (Hujcs) Zednik.

She worked at St. Luke’s before starting a family, and once her children were grown, she returned to work at Stewart Sandwiches, Weaver’s Gems and Minerals and eventually Piercing Pagoda before retiring. She made wonderful friends along the way and she continued getting together monthly to play cards with her former coworkers turned friends.

She took immense pride in keeping a warm, inviting home where the door was always open and a dish could be whipped up for anyone who walked through it. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, filled with the comforting aromas of her famous chicken paprika, freshly baked apple pie and kiffles.

She also loved her neighbors and neighborhood, especially the summer days spent volunteering at Meadow Pool during swim meets.

In her quiet moments at home, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures: reading a good Amish book, crafting, knitting, and sewing.

Her life was a testament to deep, selfless love, leaving behind cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

She is survived by her loving children: Joseph Jr., of Emmaus, Lisa Schoch and her husband, David, of Alburtis, Christine Conway, of Slatington, Stephanie Krasely, of Emmaus; her nine beloved grandchildren; her 10 cherished great-grandchildren; her siblings, Judy Heydt, John Zednik, Karen Fritchman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.