M. Luther “Bud” Souders, formerly of Emmaus, 79, died Nov. 17, 2023, in the Memory Care Unit at Lehigh Commons. He was the husband of Susan (Susie) Souders for 52 years. Born in Allentown, he was the son of M. Luther and Marie Souders.

He graduated from Emmaus High School and Kutztown University and was a science teacher at Emmaus Junior High School for 30 years.

He was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church, Allentown.

He was a teacher and dedicated environmentalist. He was president of the Lehigh Valley Audubon Society and took great pleasure in having his students accompany him on the annual Christmas bird count. He served on the board of the Wildlands Conservancy. In the early 1970s he was a leading advocate of the organic movement and gave tours of the Rodale Organic Farm and was a published author about environmental stewardship through Rodale Press. He developed an environmental education program for the elementary schools in the East Penn School District.

He loved a good adventure, whether he was catching rattlesnakes or cruising the Norwegian fjords. He was fortunate to travel extensively and visit many national parks. His favorites were Yosemite and Acadia. He put tens of thousands of miles on “the motor home” as he and his family traversed the United States. He was proud of his hometown and especially loved the Anchorage and Brass Rail restaurants.

Tennis and ping-pong were his favorite sports and he played both for many decades.

His family brought him great joy and a sense of pride. He was always involved in his son’s sports activities, including Little League, tennis and cross-country. Perhaps the most precious memory with each grandchild, was a special trip to California and Yosemite National Park when each grandchild turned 11.

The sun will rise in the east tomorrow and if you are fortunate enough to see it, know you are sharing a special moment with Bud.

He is survived by his wife; son, Craig and his wife, Diana; grandchildren, Madeline and Lucas.

Contributions may be made to the Wildlands Conservancy or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.

A memorial service will be held 10:30 a.m. Nov. 25 at the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, 17th and Hamilton streets, Allentown. A calling hour will be held 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home.