Marlene J. (Zimmerman) German, 85, of Bethlehem, passed away on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Moravian Village in Bethlehem. Born on December 26, 1940, Marlene was a daughter of the late Edward and Juliet (Dubbs) Zimmerman and a graduate of Liberty High School. She was the wife of the late Robert German.

The lifelong competition for Mom's favorite child and grandchild has officially ended. Whether you were her favorite child (Mark), thought you were her favorite (Keith), or refused to accept that you weren't (Dawn), she enjoyed every minute and had no intention of ever revealing a winner.

Known by many names—Marlene, Molly, Mom, Mrs. German—none brought her more joy than the title Grammy. She was a strong, loving, and devoted woman whose laughter, humor, wisdom, and generous heart touched so many lives. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart and were her greatest joy and pride. She often said, "I'm the Grammy, and what happens when they are with me is up to me!" That was code for: they could get away with anything.

Marlene's faith and her church were important parts of her life, as were the lifelong friendships she made with so many members of her church family. She dedicated 40 years of service to Advent Moravian Church as its secretary and was a devoted Sunday school teacher and active member of the Women's Circle. In 2020, by unanimous vote of the Board of Elders, she received The Angel Award.

Before her work at the church, Marlene worked for Lehigh University, Bethlehem Steel, and the Bethlehem Area School District.

She treasured her many friendships, watching the Phillies, going to lunch, seeing a movie, or visiting one of her favorite places, Wind Creek. She believed life was meant to be lived, relationships cherished, and laughter never taken for granted.

Marlene brought her family together and made everything feel more like home. She will be deeply missed for her laughter, love, wisdom, and humor. Most of all, her family will miss simply having her here.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Dawn Hagenbuch and her partner, Joe Coleman, of Bethlehem; Keith German and his, partner Kristina Frey of Bethlehem; and Mark German and his wife, Agnes, of Hellertown; eight grandchildren, Hannah, Emma, Nicholas, Matthew, Gabrielle, Gretchen, Noah, and Luke; and her extended family and friends. In addition to her husband and parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her brother, Richard Zimmerman.

Rest peacefully, Mom. We love you more than words can say—and we will forever be arguing over who was your favorite.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 P.M. on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at Advent Moravian Church, 3730 Jacksonville Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18017, to celebrate Marlene's life. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Advent Moravian Church, 3730 Jacksonville Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18017.