Vernon M. Longenbach, 82, of Emmaus, died March 21, 2022 in Lehigh Valley Inpatient Hospice.  He was the husband of Mary (Balado) Longenbach.  Born in Slatington, he was the son of the late Willard and Amy (Horn) Longenbach.  He worked as a crane operator for Bethlehem Steel for 33 years, retiring in 1995.  Vern was a hardworking and loving grandfather that lit up at the sight of his three grandchildren. He was a lover of animals, nature, and music, collected coins pocketknives and wrist watches and his Ford pickup truck was never far from a flea market. When he wasn't spending time with his family and friends, he could be found at Jake's flea Market on the weekends where everyone knew him by name. He had an "official" lunch counter seat at the Queen City Diner which the waitresses saved for him every day and was such a valued customer at his local Dunkin Donuts that he was given a key to the store, where he would turn the lights on in the morning. He was trusted and loved by everyone but none as much as his beloved wife Mary, who he was married to for 61 years and whom he still referred to as "my girl."

Vernon is survived by his wife, Mary; son, Mark Longenbach and wife Lisa of Northampton; daughter, Lisa Spohn of Allentown; brother, Ricky Longenbach and wife Tina of Germansville; grandchildren, Brendan Spohn, Gabriella Longenbach, and Nicholas Longenbach.  He was predeceased by a son, Kirk Longenbach.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.  Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lehigh Valley Hospice, 2024 Lehigh St., Allentown, PA 18103.