Gary R. Townsend, 62 of Bethlehem passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at his residence. Born April 10, 1955 in Salisbury, MD, he was the son of the late Russell Townsend and Margaret "Peggy" (Christopher) Townsend of Northampton. Gary worked as a Final Technician for Mack Trucks for 32 years before retiring in 2006. He raced motorcycles at Zinc City in Palmerton and he also loved Nascar. He was a former member of Fraternal Order of Eagles in Bethlehem. In his spare time he enjoyed renovating houses and apartments. Surviving are sons, Gary Townsend, Jr. of Greenacres, FL & Jeremy Ponstingl of Allentown, PA, daughter, Kelly Townsend of Catasauqua, PA, step-son, Ryan James of Charleston, SC, step-daughter, Ashley Lacerda of West Jefferson, NC, sisters, Molly, wife of Richard Stahley of Saylorsburg, PA, Melissa, wife of Gary Blair of New Castle, IN & Mary, wife of Stephen Arndt of Mertztown, PA, half-brothers, Russell Townsend of Melbourne, FL & Tom Townsend and wife Eva of Gotha, FL, 4 grandchildren, nieces & nephews. She was predeceased by half-sister, Marie Granski. A Memorial service will be held Saturday, April 7, at 11:00 AM at Schisler Funeral Home, 2119 Washington Ave. Northampton, PA 18067 followed by interment at Fairview Cemetery - Northampton.The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Gary Townsend C/O Schisler Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schislerfuneralhomes.com

Published in Morning Call on Apr. 3, 2018