Donald G. Woodward

Donald Woodward, 64, passed into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at his residence in Lehighton, surrounded by his loving family.

He grabbed his fishing pole, crossed the rainbow bridge, and found a good spot by the lake to throw out his line.

Born in Coaldale on April 3, 1957, Donald was the son of the late Russell and Geraldine (Butler) Woodward of Tamaqua. He was married to his wife, Marlene (Zellner) Woodward, for 43 years.

He was nearing retirement as a professional welder for Sovereign Steel Manufacturing in Hazleton. A self-taught welder, he purchased his first welding machine at a yard sale about 40 years ago, and it became not only his talent but his profession. He also worked at the Pennsylvania Steel Foundry in Hamburg for almost two decades and was a welder for Szoke Brothers Inc. in Slatington.

Donald was a Cold War Era Veteran and Sergeant in the U.S. Army. He took great pride in his four-year stint in the military and later joined the U.S. National Guards for two years. While in the service, one of the assignments he had was to handle military processions.

He was an avid fisherman, and his favorite pastime was fishing at Mauch Chunk Lake, Beltzville Lake and the local creek. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them new things and hanging out with his beloved cat Charlie.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Steven and his wife Jennifer of Andreas, and a daughter Janet, wife of Rick Mertz of Lehighton. He had three grandchildren, Noah and Ava Mertz and Cole Woodward.

Services will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, February 5th at Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, New Ringgold, with Pastor Keith House officiating. Calling hours 8:30-10:30 a.m. Masks must be worn, and COVID-19 protocols will be followed. Private interment at Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown, with full military honors bestowed by the Lehighton UVO.

Memorial contributions in his name can be made to Carbon County Friends of Animals, 77 W. 13th St., Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 or the Mahoning Valley Fire Co., 2358 Mahoning Dr W. Lehighton, PA 18235.

Arrangements are being handled by the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold. Online condolences may be made at www.hartmanfuneralhomeinc.com.