Albert J. Zarbatany

Albert Zarbatany, 91, of Palmer Township, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026.

Born on September 17, 1934, in Easton, Pennsylvania, Albert was the son of the late John and Eugenie Zarbatany. He grew up in Easton alongside his brothers, John and Robert, and his late sister, Jeanette Budge. He spent his youth helping in the family grocery store on Washington Street in downtown Easton. In 1963, he moved to Palmer Township, where he remained for the rest of his life.

Albert graduated from Easton High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lafayette College in 1956. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Lehigh University. A dedicated educator and respected leader, Albert devoted 38 years to the Wilson Area School District. He began his career as an English teacher at Wilson High School in 1956, serving until 1974. He then became Principal of Philip Lauer Middle School, serving from 1974 to 1981, before being appointed Superintendent of the Wilson Area School District, a position he held until his retirement in 1994. Among his proudest accomplishments were the construction of the new Wilson High School and the continued advancement of educational opportunities through technology. He often credited the district’s success to its talented and professional staff. Athletics played an important role in Albert’s life. A wrestler during his school years and a District XI Wrestling Champion, he later became the founding wrestling coach at Wilson High School, where he established the wrestling program and served as head coach for 14 years. As a coach, he earned widespread respect for his leadership, dedication, and accomplishments, including guiding Wilson to historic victories over rival Easton. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Albert was inducted into the District XI Division II Coaches Hall of Fame. Many former athletes and colleagues remembered him as a mentor who shaped lives both on and off the mat. Albert also proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard and was honorably discharged in May 1963. Above all else, Albert was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who rarely missed a birthday, holiday, family gathering, or special occasion. His warmth, enthusiasm, and ever-present smile made every event brighter.

Albert shared nearly 66 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sandra. Together they built a life centered on family and community. He is survived by Sandra; his three sons, Michael, David, and Paul; daughter-in law Crystal, wife of David; grandchildren Jordyn Childers and Jillian Zarbatany; great-grandchildren Oaklee and Christopher Childers; daughter-in-law Emily, wife of Paul; and grandchildren John and Katherine Zarbatany.

Albert considered himself fortunate to have spent a lifetime doing work he loved and serving a community he cherished. He often reflected on how fortunate he was to have a career that brought him such fulfillment and to have been treated with kindness and respect throughout his years of service. His legacy lives on through his family, former students, colleagues, athletes, and the countless lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Albert’s life at Finegan Funeral Home, 4080 William Penn Highway, Easton, PA 18045. A viewing will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed immediately by a funeral service. Interment will follow at Northampton Memorial Shrine, 3051 Green Pond Road, Easton, PA 18045.

Albert’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love, friendship, and support shown throughout his life and during this time of loss. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wilson Area School District (WASD) Albert Zarbatany Wrestling Fund, a tribute that will continue to support future generations of student-athletes and honor Albert’s enduring commitment to education, mentorship, and the sport he loved. Contributions may be brought or mailed to: Finegan Funeral Home 4080 William Penn Highway Easton, PA 18045, (610) 258-7021.