Tom Donchez, 72, of Bethlehem died Aug. 28, 2024. Born in Bethlehem, he was a son of the late Helen Donchez. He was the husband of Sheela (McPhillips) Donchez for 49 years.

He was a Liberty HS graduate. He played football at Penn State for his mentor, Joe Paterno. He earned an MBA from Lehigh University.

He had a short career in the NFL which ended due to injuries.

He was a 35-year professional at Air Products, Allentown.

He was active in St. Anne’s Parish.

He was a founding member of the Penn State Football Letterman’s club, which for 40 years brought together generations of families in continuance of the Penn State legacy and the Grand Experiment. He was on the board of trustees of Bethlehem Catholic HS and was on the Bethlehem Authority.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Andrew (Julie Spata), Peter (Julie Jacobi) and Michael (Lauren Edger); seven grandchildren, Madeleine, Will, Grace, Claire, Emilia, Lucille and Miles, and grandchild number eight due in October; a sister, Beverly Bradley (Dan); and two brothers, Dennis and Ron.

Contributions may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem; visit bgcob.org and https://givebutter.com/donateBGCOB.

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