Colette M. Lennert

Colette M. Lennert, of Bethlehem, departed this life for the Heavenly Kingdom of God on May 15. She was the wife of Dr. Joseph B. Lennert. They enjoyed 57 wonderful years together. Colette was born in Bethlehem on November 20, 1948 to John J. Geier and Regina Geier (née Lesko). She was the sister of Conrad Geier.

Colette was mother to Gina Marie (wife of Steve Goldman), Joseph Christopher (husband of Dr. Tiana Shekari), and Brett John. Her grandchildren were a true joy to her - she was to "Grandy" to Jacob and David, and "DeeDee" to Madilyn, Tyler, and Olivia.

Colette graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School and then earned a B.A. in Education at Moravian University, where she also met her husband, Joe. The couple relocated to Philadelphia for Joe to attend medical school while Colette taught in the Philadelphia public school system. It was here that Gina was born. Then it was onto Danville, PA for Joe's medical residency, where Joseph Christopher and Brett John were born. 

 When the family moved back to Bethlehem and Joe opened his medical practice, Colette became office manager. She worked alongside her husband to build the business while together raising their family. As their children grew up and went on their own paths, Colette and Joe soon stepped in to serve as parents to Madilyn.

Always caring for others in both her personal and professional life, retirement for Colette meant more time with her grandchildren. She was the dedicated driver to school, an eager babysitter whenever requested, or hosting playtime at DeeDee's pool. Colette loved to cook, often making traditional Slovak dishes and her world-famous kiffles. Other interests - collecting polish pottery and Lynn Haney Santa's, shopping, travel, dining out - were really just excuses to spend more time with the people she loved. 

Colette's life will be celebrated with family and friends on Friday, May 29. Calling hours at Connell Funeral home (9:30am-10:45am) will be followed by mass at Notre Dame Church of Bethlehem (11:30am).

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Lukes' Hospice House or a charity of your choice.