Gary A. Neifert, Sr. March 31, 1942 - March 30, 2017

Gary A. Neifert, Sr., 74, of Cherryville, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017, in Lehigh Valley Health Network, Muhlenberg, just minutes before his 75th birthday, after hard fought battles with cancer.  He and his wife, Louise M. (Gerhard), celebrated their 52nd anniversary.  Born in Palmerton, he was a son of the late Irvin L. and Dorothy M. (Christman) Neifert.  A graduate of Coplay High School and a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War, he owned Gary’s Barber Shop, Lehighton.  Gary was a member of Hope Lutheran Church, Cherryville, Masonic Lodge #621 F. & A. M., Lehighton, and American Legion #314, Lehighton.  Survivors: wife; sons, Gary Allan, Jr., Matthew T., Moore Twp.; brothers, the Reverend Jody L. and wife, Kim L., Lehighton, Arthur Diehl and wife, Ann, CA; sisters, Ondrea A., Bethlehem Twp., Barbara Andrews, CA; grandchildren, Nicholas A., Ashley N.; close companion, dog Bailley.  Granddaughter, Jessica E., preceded him in death.  Services: 11 AM Thursday in church, 4131 Lehigh Dr. Call 10 AM until service time.  Arrangements entrusted to STEPHENS FUNERAL HOME, INC.  Contributions: in lieu of flowers, to church, 18035.