Susan E. “Suzi” Messbauer, 61, of Kunkletown, formerly of Allentown, died peacefully at home Dec. 21, 2021. She was the loving wife of Robert W. “Bob” Messbauer, celebrating 37 years of marriage in August 2021. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late Ronald K. Burke and the late Dorothy J. (Rothrock) Morgues.

She worked as a dental hygienist and later as an H&R Block franchise owner with her husband.

Throughout her life she showed remarkable grit in the face of adversity, facing life’s challenges head-on while showing tremendous compassion toward the disadvantaged and less fortunate. She possessed a rare ability to excel as both a leader and a follower. She was a passionate animal lover, a skilled outdoors woman, and a clever cook.

She is survived by her husband; daughter, Sarah E., of Huntington, W. Va.; son, Michael K. and his wife, Laura A. Housley, of Allentown; brothers, Timothy C. Burke and his wife, Margart Howarth, of Kunkletown and James B. Burke, of Whitehall; dog and faithful companion, Millie.

Contributions may be made to the West End Food Pantry, 516 Kunkletown Road, Kunkletown, 18058.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were made by the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown.