Francis P. “Fran” Montuori, 90, of Lower Macungie Township, near Allentown, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Aug. 16, 2025, at Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest, Salisbury Township. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Fran’s quiet strength and enduring presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him. Fran lived a full and vibrant life marked by devotion to family, faith, education, and community.
Born on Nov. 7, 1934 in Orange, New Jersey, to Carmine “Frank” Montuori and Amelia “Millie” Montuori (nee Serino), Fran grew up in West Orange, New Jersey. After graduating from Our Lady of the Valley High School in Orange, Fran attended Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey, and received an associate’s degree from Newark College of Engineering before completing his bachelor’s degree, and later an MBA, at Rutgers University. During his academic years, he was an active member of the Tau Delta Phi fraternity.
Fran spent his professional career with AT&T and Lucent Technologies. He launched his career in 1959 with Western Electric’s Defense Activities Division in Manhattan. His professional path later led him to Bell Labs in Whippany, New Jersey. He was transferred to the Western Electric Plant in Allentown and moved to the area in early 1974. After retiring from Lucent, he remained connected to his professional roots through the Western Electric Pioneers.
Beyond his career achievements, Fran was deeply involved in civic and educational organizations. A 60-year Life Member of America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons in both the Northern New Jersey and Delhigh squadrons, he rose to the rank of Senior Navigator and generously shared his knowledge by teaching boating classes.
Among other joys in Fran’s life, he made lasting contributions to youth music programs through his involvement with Allentown Central Catholic High School’s music department. As President and trip organizer of the Music Parents Association, he played a key role in enriching students’ musical experiences. Travel was another joy in Fran’s life. As a member of the Assumption Travel Club, he explored destinations such has Spain, Italy, Morocco, and Eastern Europe. He also had a deep appreciation for the arts, frequently attending opera performances and theater productions. At home, Fran found comfort in classic westerns, war movies, public television, and classical music, and enjoyed boating and fishing whenever possible. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Giants football team. His interests were wide-ranging but always grounded in curiosity and enthusiasm.
A devout Catholic and longtime attendee of St. Thomas More Church near Allentown, Fran’s faith was a cornerstone of his life for over 50 years. It guided not only his values but also the way he treated others—with kindness, humility, and unwavering support.
Fran is predeceased by his parents, his twin brother Donald P. Montuori Sr., and his son-in-law John Soper. Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 63 years Diane, son David (Sarah) of Virginia, daughters Dori Levi (Marc) of North Carolina, and Elena Soper of California, grandchildren Tony, Rachel (Brandon), Dana, Meg, Justin, and Ethan, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
