John L. Kerchner Sr. 87, of Freemansburg, died June 5, 2024, at his residence. Born in Hazelton, he was one of 14 children and a son of the late Roland and Helen (Coyle) Kerchner. He was the husband of Sandra L. (Leibig) Kerchner for 63 years.

He was in the U.S. Air Force during peacetime.

He was a blast furnace operator for 39 years for the former Bethlehem Steel until he retired in 1997.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, John L. (Jill) Kerchner Jr. of East Petersburg, Melissa A. Kerchner of Freemansburg and Denise E. (Michael) Hollobow of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; four grandchildren, Heather (Ryan) Emerich, Hilary (Jordan Boothe) Kerchner and Samantha and Nicholas Hollobow; four great-grandchildren, Kendall and Laurel Emerich and Ethan and Eloise Boothe; and four sisters.

He was predeceased by nine siblings.

Contributions may be made to VNA Hospice of St. Luke’s, 240 Union Station Plaza, Bethlehem, PA 18015.

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