Carl R. Bales, Sr.

Carl R. Bales, Sr., 80, of District Township, PA, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025 in Phoebe - Allentown. Born in his family home in Bally, PA, Carl was the son of the late Gus and Anna (Leh) Bales and attended Brandywine Heights High School, Topton.

Carl was the widow of Rita A. (Meitzler) Bales, whom he married on June 13, 1964, and who passed away on May 24, 2025. Carl transformed his passion for excavation into a successful career as the owner and operator of Carl Bales Excavating, which he operated alongside his wife since 1985. His mastery of the craft was not just a means of livelihood; it was a reflection of his hands-on spirit and commitment to quality work. Many in the community benefited from Carl's expertise and unwavering work ethic, earning his respect and admiration throughout the industry. He was always proud and appreciative of all of his employees through his 40 years in business.

Carl was a member of Longswamp Lions Club and was dedicated to helping his community. He had a love for old cars and restoring them. He would look forward to attending the yearly Wheels of Time Rod & Custom Jamboree in Macungie. Carl was a constant source of support for his family, instilling values of resilience and compassion in his children and grandchildren. His love for them knew no bounds, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments,

Carl is survived by his four children, Charlene A. (Bales), wife of Terry Miller, Fleetwood, Tina L. (Bales), wife of Robert Hipp, Mertztown, Carl R. Bales, Jr., husband of Jennifer (Heller), Alburtis, and Denise G. (Bales), wife of Kyle Frisch, Mertztown; eight grandchildren, Chelsey Burnett, Noah Hipp, Tyler Miller, Joseph Bales, Corben Bales, Abigail Bales, Connor Frisch and Shelby Frisch; and six great-grandchildren, Emily and Wesley Burnett, Ronan, Lula Mae, Harlowe and Iris Bales. Carl is also survived by his sisters, Carol (Bales) Bauer, Alburtis, Diane (Bales) Hartman, Fleetwood, Doreen (Bales) Bartlet, Alburtis, and Cindy (Bales) Derr, Kutztown; their families; and the entire Meitzler family. Along with his wife Rita and parents, Carl was predeceased by a brother, Richard Bales and sister, Nancy (Bales) Meitzler.

A celebration of life memorial service for Carl will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Rockland Rod and Gun Club, 77 Fredericksville Rd, Mertztown, PA 19539. The family requests guests come in casual attire and may begin arriving at 1:00 p.m. Feel free to bring your classic car as a final tribute to Carl and his love for car shows.

Memorial contributions may be made in Carl's memory to Longswamp Lions Club, 160 Chestnut St., Mertztown, PA 19539. 

Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc., 25 E. Weis Street, Topton, PA is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting Carl's obituary tribute page at www.Ludwickfh.com.