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April Lubenetski, 51, of Lehigh Township, passed away at 8:28 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, surrounded by family and fellow first responders at St. Luke’s Brian D. Perin Hospice House in Lower Saucon Township. Diagnosed with stage 4b cancer in August 2024, she continued serving her community as long as she was physically able.
April’s passing has been declared a line-of-duty death, attributed to occupational cancer — a disease caused by toxic exposures linked to firefighting. “Despite April's sudden diagnosis and willful fight, she would still be seen at the department, dedicating herself at various events that physically allowed her to continue serving,” said the Lehigh Township Volunteer Fire Company, where she had served since 2008.
April was also a Master Firefighter with the Emmaus Fire Department for over 24 years. She began her emergency service journey in May 1999 with the Catasauqua Fire Department and also served with Han-Le-Co Fire Department, the Lehigh Valley Animal Response Team, LC SpecOps, and PA USAR Co. #3. She was a proud member of IAFF Local 5004.
Her death came just three days after a fire and police escort transferred her from St. Luke’s to hospice care on Friday, May 16. “She fought valiantly; she was a trouper. Very strong, very brave lady and will be sorely missed,” said Lehigh Township Fire Chief John Haggerty.
April’s commitment to public safety was matched only by her compassion and determination, colleagues said. “She served with steadfast courage, unwavering determination, and honor. Her character, compassion, and dedication to her fellow firefighters shall never be forgotten,” wrote members of the Catasauqua Fire Department, who joined Emmaus and Lehigh Township in mourning her death.
April was born in Allentown to Ronald and Sue Ellen Bond and lived in Walnutport with her husband of 24 years, Shawn Michael Lubenetski. She graduated from Northampton Area Senior High School and earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Northampton Community College with specialized training in alcohol and chemical dependency counseling. She worked as a Lead Customer Service Representative for United HealthCare.
She loved traveling to Disney World, the Outer Banks, the Finger Lakes, Yellowstone, and anywhere she could make memories with her godchildren, nieces, and nephews.
A fire procession previously announced for May 25 has been canceled. Instead, services will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31 with prayers and Last Call at the Emmaus Fire Department, 100 North Sixth Street. Her procession will travel to Bethany Wesleyan Church, 675 Blue Mountain Drive in Cherryville, for an 11:00 a.m. service. A second Last Call will follow, ending at the Lehigh Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 for a Celebration of Life luncheon.
A Firefighters Scholarship Fund is being established in her name. Donations may be mailed to:
Shawn M. Lubenetski444 Pershing Blvd.Whitehall, PA 18052-6411
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Gilbert Funeral Home of Whitehall.
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