Raymond N. Knechel, Sr., 93, of Bethlehem, PA died Friday, February 27, 2026 at the Inpatient Hospice Unit of Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown. He was the beloved husband of Gladys (Long) Knechel with whom he celebrated 73 years of marriage on September 27, 2025.  Raymond was born in Fountain Hill, PA, to Mamie and Francisco Rodriguez. At 18 years of age, he was adopted by his maternal grandparents, the late Raymond C. and Ella (Reinbold) Knechel. Raymond was an Army Veteran of the Korean War who spent eight years in the service before returning home.  He began his career as a crane operator at Bethlehem Steel and then worked in various places, including driving tractor trailer. His last employment was in the Quakertown School District when he retired. Raymond started attending the First Church of the Nazarene in 1936 with his parents and was a faithful member for over 50 years. In the late 1980's he became a member of Grace Church Bethlehem until his passing. Raymond was also a very talented vocalist and pianist who sang with his wife, Gladys; shared his musical talent in his church; and sang in Zion Choral for many years. Raymond loved his family and they loved him. His favorite verses were Proverbs chapter 3, verses 5 and 6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths."

Survivors: Wife; children, Raymond N. Knechel, Jr. and his wife Brenda, Robert N. Knechel, Terri K. Knechel Young, Ricky N. Knechel all of Bethlehem;

Grandchildren, Charles, Kyle, Jeremy, Ben; Great grandchildren, Joshua, Lucas and Jacob. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Mark C. Young.

Service: A Private Service will be held for family.  A Private Entombment will take place at Bethlehem Memorial Park.  Arrangements are entrusted to the

Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem.  Please record a memory at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Raymond's memory to Grace Church Bethlehem, 4301 Hecktown Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18020.