Shirley A. Ruland, 82, of Bethlehem Township, passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 3, 2018. She was the wife of the late Donald B. Ruland who passed away on August 19, 1991. Born in Easton, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Catherine (Everly) Harlan. Shirley attended Pennsylvania State University and East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania where she earned her teaching degree. She worked as an elementary school teacher for the Bethlehem Area School District for over 20 years until retiring. She and her husband were devoted to enlightening and challenging their students to reach their highest potential. She was a former member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Bethlehem. After retirement, Shirley enjoyed going to breakfast with her co-workers. She also loved cooking, solving crossword puzzles, reading, and spending time in her pool and on her deck. She was also a master piano player. Above anything, her grandchildren were her greatest love and inspiration.
SURVIVORS: She will be lovingly remembered by her companion of 20 years, Allan vanHorne; daughter Teri Lyn Ruland-Scharle and her husband Dr. Timothy Scharle, of Bethlehem; son Rand R. Ruland and his wife Christina Russ of Fort Mill, SC; sister Mary Lou Wollman of Easton; grandchildren, Ryan D. Ruland, Kathryn M. Ruland, James H. Stellato and Julianna R. Stellato.
SERVICES: A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday May 7, 2018 at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden St., Bethlehem, PA 18018. Calling hours will be held Sunday May 6th from 1:00 - 3:00 PM and again on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Her burial will take place at Hope Cemetery in Hecktown. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
CONTRIBUTIONS: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bethlehem Area School District, 1516 Sycamore Street Bethlehem, PA 18017.
Calling Hours
MAY 6. 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (EDT)
Cantelmi Long Funeral Home
500 Linden Street
Bethlehem, PA, 18018
Second Visitation
MAY 7. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EDT)
Cantelmi Long Funeral Home
500 Linden Street
Bethlehem, PA, 18018
Funeral Service
MAY 7. 11:00 AM (EDT)
Cantelmi Long Funeral Home
500 Linden Street
Bethlehem, PA, 18018
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