Thomas Edward Skopal Sr., 84, of Bethlehem, died June 19, 2023. Born in Chicago, Ill., he was a son of the late Edward R. Skopal and Sarajane (Baker) Skopal, who died during childbirth, and the late Rita V. (Peebles) Skopal. He was the husband of the late Patricia A. (Bates) Skopal for 40 years.

He earned a bachelor’s degree from Drexel University.

He was employed by Acopian Technical Company for more than 40 years and retired as the vice-president.

He was a ham radio operator license for which he first qualified as a teen.

He is survived by a son, Thomas Edward Jr. and wife Christy; a daughter, Karen McLaughlin and husband Robert; five grandchildren, Katherine “Katie” McLaughlin, William “Liam” Skopal, Carilyn “Cari” McLaughlin, Marcus “Marc” Skopal and Josephine “Josie” Skopal; ived five siblings, Sister Mary Skopal, S.S.J.; Patricia Grant and husband Richard; Edward Skopal and wife Patricia; James Skopal and wife Georgia; and Joan Skopal; his late wife’s cousin, Barbara Creegan, and family; nieces; and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Catherine Colleran.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, or to Miller-Keystone Blood Center.

Arrangements were made by Connell Funeral Home Inc., Bethlehem.