Preston J. "Pep" Ervin, Jr., 83, of Upper Nazareth, passed peacefully on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Lehigh Valley Hospice Inpatient in Allentown. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Fogel) Ervin with whom he shared 64 years of marriage.

Born February 6, 1941in Easton, he was a son of the late Preston and Helen (Hayden) Ervin. During his life Preston became fondly known by the nickname 'Pep' due to his zest for life and several interests. Whether it be archery hunting, fishing, calling turkey in or just taking photos, Pep loved spending his free time outdoors and interacting with wildlife. Eager to share his enthusiasm, he enjoyed mentoring anyone who wanted to know how to hunt or fish, especially children. Pep also enjoyed buying and selling as a hobby in addition to grass cutting fields.

Pep attended Nazareth High School and proudly served in the U.S. Army while stationed in Korea where he served in the Honor Guard. He later worked as a meatcutter for Falks Food Basket as well as held other side jobs. Later he owned and operated Pep's Hoagies and Pep's place in the west end of Nazareth. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hecktown as well as a Life member of Point Phillips Rod and Gun Club and the East Lawn Fire Company.

In addition to his loving wife, Joan, Pep is survived by his daughter Tammy Rissmiller and her husband Wayne; sons, Scott Ervin and his wife Jennie and  David Ervin and his wife Dawn; grandchildren Justin Ervin, Kristi Ervin, Sean Ervin and wife Amy, Brett Rissmiller, Sara Struening and husband Cody, Tanner Ervin and Kirsten Ervin; great grandchildren Angie, Zachary, Sofia Rissmiller, Tyler Ervin, Bailey, Carter Struening, Penelope, Ellie Ervin and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is predeceased by his son Steven Ervin; brother Gene Rader; and sister Beverly (Sue) Laquasto

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Pep may be sent directly to St. Jude's Children Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org. Arrangements are under the care of the Schmidt Funeral Home PC, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth, PA.