Lynn and Sue Ratzell

Sue Ratzell Scholarship Fund​ for Nursing​

Lynn Ratzell and his family established this scholarship fund in memory of Sarah Jane “Sue” Ratzell, who passed away in 2013.  Sue was a trained nurse who worked at Miller Memorial Blood Center before retiring and applying her training to her many volunteer hours, including those with the Red Cross.  This memorial fund supports nursing students at DeSales University by providing a scholarship to a fourth-year nursing student who demonstrates an interest in community and public health.

“I discussed the idea of a scholarship with our children, Thomas and Michelle,” said Lynn. “We agreed that nursing with a focus on community health and wellness was what best represented ‘mom.’ My daughter found the Community Foundation. I talked to them and they helped identify the programs that support nursing in the local community. We chose DeSales University and the rest is history. I am very proud of what we have accomplished with the help of the Community Foundation.”

Remembering a loved one…

Sue Ratzell was the beloved wife of Lynn Ratzell. Together they shared 49 years of marriage. Born in Quakertown, Pa., she was a graduate of Harrisburg Polyclinic Hospital with a certificate in Nursing and most notably worked at Miller Memorial Blood Center for many years before retiring. She was an active member of Christ Church UCC, Bethlehem, Pa., where she taught Sunday school for many years and volunteered for many congregational groups and events including the soup kitchen.

Lynn Irwin Ratzel passed away in May 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Sarah Jane (Myers) Ratzell who passed in 2013 and Katherine (Keck) Heller whom he married in a commitment ceremony in November 2022. Born in Quakertown, he was the son of the late Irwin and Evelyn (Fox) Ratzell. He graduated from Quakertown High School in 1960 and attended Penn State University graduating in 1964 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He worked for PP&L for over 32 years retiring in 2002 and then did private consulting for 3 years more before retiring in 2005. He was a former member of Christ UCC Church in Bethlehem where he was active in the Soup Kitchen through Bethlehem Emergency Shelter and more recently has been an active member at New Creation UCC Church in Palmer Twp. He was also active in the Nazareth Lions Club, the Environmental Advisory Council of Lwr. Nazareth Twp., and the Rotary Club of Nazareth. In his free time, Lynn enjoyed cycling throughout the Lehigh Valley, and he was an avid skier and loyal Penn State fan.

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