Memorial service set for Emmaus firefighter April Lubenetski

EMMAUS, Pa. — A memorial service honoring the life of April Lubenetski, a master firefighter for the Emmaus Fire Department and a firefighter/EMT for the Lehigh Township Volunteer Fire Company, will be held Saturday, May 31.

Lubenetski died May 19 of occupational cancer caused by her work as a firefighter.

Occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty death among firefighters, accounting for 72% of International Association of Fire Fighters member deaths in 2023.

“April has dedicated more than two decades of her life serving the citizens of Emmaus and surrounding areas of Lehigh County,” the Emmaus Professional Firefighters Association IAFF Local 5004 said in a statement.

“During her tenure, April served with steadfast courage, unwavering determination and honor. Her character, compassion and dedication to her fellow firefighters shall never be forgotten.”

Services will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, with prayers and a final call at the Emmaus Fire Department, 100 N. Sixth St. in Emmaus.

Her procession will travel to Bethany Wesleyan Church, 675 Blue Mountain Drive, Cherryville, for services at 11 a.m. A final call will be bestowed after the services, followed by a procession through the township and a celebration of life luncheon at the Lehigh Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1.

A firefighters scholarship fund is being established in Lubenetski’s name. Checks may be made payable to Shawn Lubenetski and mailed to 444 Pershing Blvd., Whitehall, PA 18052.

Lubenetski is survived by her husband, parents and Godchildren.

The family requests that donations be made to charities in lieu of flowers.