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The famous General Trexler Estate at 1227 Hamilton Street is among the best known residences in Allentown. Filled with ornate woodwork, leaded stained glass windows, comtemporary lighting and a grand entranceway, coming to the Trexler Home is a unique experience.

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Richard J. Gavin
02/23/2014

Richard Joseph Gavin, age 60, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2014. Richard was born in Easton, PA on May 24, 1953. He was the eldest son of Paul Richard Gavin and Joyce Fulmer Eck. Richard grew up in the Phillipsburg/Easton area and graduated from Phillipsburg High School in 1971. After high school he promptly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served for four years. While in the military, he was most proud of serving in the Marine Helicopter Squadron One under President Ford and participating in the evacuation of Saigon. 

Richard was the proprietor and owner of Gavin Construction Management, which would be celebrating its 20th year. Richard was a meticulous, dedicated craftsman and builder. He was a skilled problem solver and knew how to change any situation into a positive one. Loved and adored by his clients, he touched the lives of everyone that he worked with. Richard was an exceptional athlete who exceled at cycling, cross country skiing, sailing, and enjoying his time while on the golf greens. He loved to travel, appreciated art, and had a vast appreciation and love of all types of music. He loved to engage in thought provoking discussions. His lifestyle was focused in the Buddhist faith directing him toward meditation and self-awareness.

Survivors: Richard is survived by his loving wife, Pamela Valkos, his father Paul Richard Gavin and wife Madeline of Allentown, NJ, his mother, Joyce Fulmer Eck of Easton, PA, and two sisters, Gail Gavin-Stout of Bangor, PA and Pamela Farina and her husband Charles of Easton, PA and half-brothers Keith of Bangor and Jeff of California.

Services: A service will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2014 at Iacocca Hall, Wood Dining Hall, 111 Research Drive, Mountaintop Campus Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015. Calling hours start promptly at 4pm with the service to follow at 4:30pm. Arrangements by Nicos C. Elias Funeral Home, Allentown.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made online at www.communitybikeworks.org with a note in memory of Rick Gavin. This is a student mentor program for inner city youth which teaches life skills to earn a bike.