Donald K. Folk, 88, of Bethel, PA, passed away on the morning of Saturday, March 21, 2026, at St. Joseph Medical Center due to natural causes.
Born on March 27, 1937, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late James and Annie (Haine) Folk. A 1955 graduate of Reading High School, he continued his education at Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute. He went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He built a long and dedicated career working for Rockwell International and Parker Hannifin, retiring in 2001.
In 1977, he founded Boy Scout Troop 144 Strausstown and served as a devoted Scout leader for over two decades, guiding and mentoring young people, including his four sons, until 1999. He was also a loyal and active member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. In addition, he and his wife opened their home as foster parents for more than three decades, providing care, stability, and compassion to nearly 40 children.
He was a loving husband to Margie, celebrating 57 years of marriage this July. He is survived by his children, Bradley Folk (Christine), of Bernville, Douglas Folk (Tenille), of Aspen, Daniel Folk (Erin Schmitt), of Bernville, Kimberly Folk, and James Folk. He was a proud Pop-Pop to Andrew, Amelia, Annie, Clayton, Colton, and Jordan, all of whom brought him great joy. He was preceded in death by his brother, Allen Folk; and sisters, Shirley Miller and Dorothy Baum.
He will be remembered for his steady presence, his commitment to family and community, and the lasting impact he made on those he led and loved.
Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 2351 Mount Zion Road, Fredericksburg, PA 17026. Grose Funeral Home, Myerstown, has been entrusted with the arrangements.
