Robert H. Desch Jr., 52, died May 9, 2021, at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Reading, after a battle with COVID-19. He was the companion of Laura Axt for 18 years.

He was a son of the late Robert H. Sr. and Barbara A. (Ballinger) Desch of Allentown.

He was a varsity baseball player at David Brearley High School, Kenilworth, N.J.

He was a HVAC technician for Home Serve/UGI for more than 15 years in the Reading area.

He was a current active member of the Township of Spring Fire and Rescue, West Lawn, where he held the positions of lieutenant, treasurer and trustee.

In addition to his mother and companion, he is survived by two sons, Robert F. at home and Nicholas of Lewes, Del.; a brother, Matthew Desch and his wife Crystal of Coplay; a sister, Carol Desch of Bullhead City, Ariz.; nieces; and a nephew.

There will be a calling time noon-1 p.m., followed by a memorial service, May 22 at the funeral home, 2119 Washington Ave., Northampton, 18067. The public is asked to continue to wear facial coverings while indoors.

Contributions may be made to the Township of Spring Fire Rescue, c/o the funeral home.

Arrangements were made by Schisler Funeral Home Inc.