Advent Moravian Church Honors Longtime Secretary Marlene J. German with Angel Award Recognition

Marlene J. (Zimmerman) German, 85, of Bethlehem, passed away on October 1, 2026, at Moravian Village in Bethlehem. She was the daughter of the late Edward and Juliet (Dubbs) Zimmerman and the wife of the late Robert German. Known for her warmth and dedication, Marlene was cherished by many, including her children, grandchildren, and extended family.

Marlene devoted 40 years to the Advent Moravian Church, serving as its secretary. She was also a Sunday school teacher and an active member of the Women’s Circle. In 2020, she was honored with The Angel Award by the Board of Elders, a recognition of her service and commitment to the church community.

Her contributions to the church were deeply rooted in her faith and community involvement. Before her role at the Advent Moravian Church, Marlene worked for Lehigh University, Bethlehem Steel Corp., and the Bethlehem Area School District, showcasing her versatility and dedication to various causes.

She is survived by her children, Dawn Hagenbuch and her partner Joe Coleman, Keith German and his partner Kristina Frey, and Mark German and his wife Agnes. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and a wide network of family and friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Richard Zimmerman, and her husband, Robert German.

A memorial service will be held on November 1 at 1 p.m. at the Advent Moravian Church, located at 3730 Jacksonville Rd. The event will honor her life and legacy, reflecting the values of community, service, and faith that defined her.

The Advent Moravian Church, part of the Moravian tradition, emphasizes community and service, values that Marlene embodied throughout her life. Her dedication to the church and her community serves as a testament to the importance of faith in action, a principle echoed in Micah 6:8, which calls for doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

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