Israel Maldonado Sr., 66 of Bethlehem, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 16th, 2017. Born in Coamo, Puerto Rico to Jose Maldonado and Georgina Rodriguez. Israel was a passionate advocate for those suffering from substance abuse and drug addiction. He loved animals and enjoyed his favorite past time of bargaining at yard sales. He was a custodian for many years for the Bethlehem area School District and was a member of Holy Infancy R. C. Church, Bethlehem.

Survivors: He is survived by his loving children; Israel Maldonado Jr., Dr. Jose Miguel Maldonado, and Syndia Rumbalski; grandchildren: Destiny Maldonado, Andrew Rumbalski, Ellie Rumbalski, Carolina Maldonado Berrios, Natalia Maldonado Berrios, great granddaughter Zeiliah Mae Rivera; and wife, Leida Sanchez with stepsons Andy Sanchez and Marco Sanchez.

Services: Relatives and friends are invited to his Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. in Holy Infancy R. C. Church and to his viewing on Monday evening from 7-9:00 p.m. and Tuesday morning from 9-9:30 a.m. in the JAMES FUNERAL HOME, 527 Center Street, Bethlehem. Burial will be at Holy Saviour Cemetery.