Lee Palank

Lee Palank, 70, of Bethlehem, passed away September 20 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Daniel and Margaret (Tokach) Palank. Lee graduated from Hazleton High School, learned the grocery business from the ground up and later went on to co-found a small chain of independent grocery stores.

Lee took great pride in coming from humble beginnings to become a successful small business owner. Lee’s greatest pleasure came from providing support and guidance for his family. While his standards were exceedingly high, they “built character” as he often liked to say. If one’s life can be measured in terms of how far they raised the bar for the next generation, than Lee Palank was a monumental success.

In retirement, Lee developed a passion for cooking and enjoyed making meals for family along with volunteering his time cooking meals for local shelters. He also enjoyed playing cards, watching Western movies and babysitting his grandchildren. Lee was also a long time parishioner of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Hellertown.

Surviving along with his beloved wife of 44 years Diana (Derbis) Palank, are his sons: Chad, and his wife Krystal , of Bethlehem, Brad, and his wife Teresa, of Hellertown; 4 grandchildren: Riley, Ava, Emma, and Ray; his brother: Barry (Linda) Palank, of Tampa, FL.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. To leave online condolences, please visit his “Book of Memories” at falkfuneralhomes.com

Donations in Lee’s honor can be made to St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Church, 1408 Easton Rd. Hellertown, PA 18055.