Two area family-owned funeral homes with long histories have joined forces in what they are calling a succession partnership.
Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory of Pennsburg, Montgomery County, and Hellertown, Northampton County, which has operated since 1955; and Connell Funeral Home in Bethlehem, which has operated since 1919 — have announced their partnership. Together, the two firms represent nearly 170 years of combined service in Montgomery, Lehigh, and Northampton counties.
What Families Can Expect
The combined entity will operate under the Connell Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory banner, ensuring unified leadership, greater resources, and expanded services across all locations, according to a press release announcing the merger.
Frank and Donna Falk will continue to serve in active roles, ensuring continuity and familiarity for families who have relied on them for decades.
In Pennsburg, the funeral home will remain Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory to honor its history and connection to the Upper Perkiomen Valley. Frank Falk will remain the supervisor ensuring a familiar face continues to lead, the company said.
Chadd A. Hamman, a lifelong Saucon Valley resident and longtime funeral director, will serve as the supervisor of the Hellertown location, now the Connell Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory.
The Bethlehem location will continue to operate as Connell Funeral Home. Families in Bethlehem will continue to be served by the Connell family and staff, with John Connell remaining as the supervisor “to ensure consistency, compassion, and their deep connection to the community,” according to the release. The Connell family also now owns and operates its own crematory.
The History
The Connell family’s journey in funeral service began in 1919 with Francis J. Connell Sr. on Bethlehem’s Southside, according to the company. Now in its fourth generation — the firm is led by Jamie, Matt, and John Connell.
The Falk family’s legacy began when Franklin and Betty Falk opened the Hellertown funeral home in 1955. The Pennsburg location began operations in 1982, where Frank and Donna Falk led a major renovation that respected the architectural heritage while expanding comfort and capacity, according to the release. In 2003, an on-site crematory was added to the location.
“We are honored to carry forward the legacy of Frank and Donna Falk,” said Jamie Connell. “This is more than a merger, it is a promise to uphold and strengthen the values of compassionate care, family service, and community support that both families have championed for decades.”
The Connell Falk team is committed to enhancing the delivery of personalized services throughout the greater Lehigh Valley, Upper Perkiomen Valley, and Saucon Valley areas, according to the release.
“What remains unchanged is the philosophy of service beyond expectation; a value established by both founding families and carried forward with renewed strength,” the release stated.
For more information, please visit www.connellfuneral.com or www.falkfuneralhomes.com.
