Emma M. Bednarik

Emma Margetich Bednarik, aged 101, of Coopersburg, Pa., passed away February 24, following a short illness at Phoebe Manor Care, Richlandtown, Pa. Emma was married to Chuck Bednarik, the late Philadelphia Eagles legend for 67 years, until his passing in 2015.

A native of Bethlehem, Pa, Emma was born August 21, 1924, the second of three children of Stephen and Emma (Hugitz) Margetich. She was predeceased by her brother, William Margetich and sister, Margaret Werpohowski.

Always proud of her Bethlehem roots, Emma cherished her memories of growing up on the South Side, where her extended family occupied many of the dwellings on Amplex Street, across the road from Bethlehem Steel, where her father walked to and from work every day.

A graduate of Liberty High School, Emma worked as a secretary in Bethlehem before her marriage in 1948. Early on, she developed a lifelong interest in nutrition and fitness which no doubt contributed to her long and healthy life.

Music was an integral part of her family life. As a young woman she joined the family band, The Croatian Tamburitza Band, along with her father, brother, uncle and cousin. With Emma on the tamburitza, the band was a popular draw at regional ethnic halls. It was while performing at the Croatian Club in Bethlehem in 1947, that Emma first drew the attention of Chuck Bednarik, also a Bethlehem native, who was then recognized as an All-American football player at the University of Pennsylvania. The couple was married less than one year later.

In addition to his football prowess, Chuck developed a love of music and taught himself to play several instruments including the keyboard, accordion and harmonica. Together he and Emma enjoyed making music and also took particular joy in attending various polka venues throughout Pennsylvania, including the recently closed Austrian Village in Rockledge, Pa. They were devoted followers and good friends of famed polka music icons Jolly Joe Timmer, Jimmy Sturr and Walt Groller. The couple traveled extensively throughout the US and Europe with a particular interest in their shared eastern European roots.

With a husband who spent much time on the road both as a football player and a popular guest at many regional and national events, Emma devoted herself to her five daughters, 12 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters, Charlene (Jon) Thomas, Donna Davis, Carol (Ken) Safarowic, Pamela (Edward), McWilliams and Jacqueline (Matthew) Chelius.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to all the staff at Phoebe Manor Care-Richlandtown for taking such wonderful care of their mother. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to The Connell Funeral Home, Bethlehem.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5050 St. Joseph Rd., Coopersburg, PA 18036 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. with Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethlehem Boys and Girls Club, 1430 Fritz Dr., Bethlehem, PA 18017.

Condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.