BREAKING: Nelson “Ozzie” King, a cherished figure in the Bethlehem community, has passed away peacefully at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family on January 26, 2026. His passing leaves a profound impact on those who knew him, as he was celebrated for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family.
Born on September 21, 1938, in Bethlehem, Ozzie was a graduate of Liberty High School and dedicated over 44 years to Bethlehem Steel, where he served as General Manager of Hazardous Waste and Vehicular Services. After retirement, he continued to connect with his community as a shuttle driver for Scott Cars for an additional 14 years, forming lasting friendships along the way.
Ozzie’s passions included spending time at the beach, enjoying the thrill of casinos, watching horse races, and fiercely supporting the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. He was an active member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Bethlehem, where he touched the lives of many.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of over 33 years, Sara Phillips King, along with his children: Rory J. King, Tara King, Craig King and his wife Carol, Lisa Sutphen, and Brad J. King. Ozzie was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Jade, Kayla, Khile, Gabrielle, Arielle, Valerie, Elisha, and Joshua, as well as twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Kandy Waas, and his cherished dogs, Gunner and Winston.
The community mourns the loss of a man who was not only a father and grandfather but a true friend to many. Ozzie was preceded in death by his parents, Nelson King and Dorothy (Fritchman) Pollinger, his brother, Wayne Pollinger, and his beloved dogs, Parker Dugan and Redford.
A funeral service will be held on February 6, 2026, at 11 A.M. at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, located at 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 9:30 A.M. until the service time. Burial will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to The Sanctuary at Haafsville, Peaceable Kingdom, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital to honor Ozzie’s legacy of compassion and service.
Ozzie King’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all those he touched, making this a truly significant moment for the Bethlehem community. A memory tribute can be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Stay tuned for more updates as the community reflects on the life and legacy of this remarkable man.
