David L. Kotsch, 72, of Northampton, and a longtime Whitehall resident, died peacefully May 11, 2016, surrounded by his dedicated family.

Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Ernest J. Kotsch Sr. and Dorothy (Bittner) Greenwood, and Dolores J. “Dolly” (Stem) Kotsch, of Whitehall.

A proud Army veteran, he served in combat with the Fifth Cavalry in Vietnam, and returned home to become a member of Fullerton American Legion Post 367.

He also was a life member of Fullerton Fire Co. No. 1.

Co-owner of Kotsch’s Market, Third Street, Whitehall most of his life, he retired in 1999.

An antique automobile collector and enthusiast, he was a life member and judge for the AACA.

His survivors include a son Michael E. Kotsch and his wife, Melissa L. “Missy” (Brunst) of Whitehall; grandsons Alexander and Nicholas; brother Ernest J. Jr and Kathy of Whitehall; brother John D. and his wife Lori of Bethlehem.

His serviceswill be private at the convenience of his family.

Interment with military honors will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va.

Contributions may be made to Lehigh Valley Hospice, P.O. Box 4000, Development Office, Allentown, PA 18105 or the VA Medical Center of Wilkes Barre Residents Activity Fund, 1111 E. End Blvd., Wilkes Barre, PA 18711

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.