Richard O. Klotz, 82, of Orefield, died Feb. 18, 2026, at home. He was the husband of Janice L. (Fronheiser) Klotz for 60 years.

Born in Syracuse, N.Y., he was a son of the late Ray and Veronica Klotz.

He began his career in the construction and insurance industries but was most proud of his 30 years of government service. He served as a South Whitehall Township and Lehigh County commissioner and served on the board of the Lehigh County Authority. He worked for 25 years in Lehigh County government and retired as director of administration after serving as director of corrections. He was then interim manager of Lower Macungie Township and of the borough of Bath.

He served on the boards of St. Luke’s Hospital, Allentown Rescue Mission, Lehigh Valley Zoo, various churches and almost 50 years on the boards of American Family Services and its foundation.

He was a member of Bethany Wesleyan Church, Cherryville.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Melissa Young and husband Earl, Tara Bender and husband Jeffery and Heather Armitage; two brothers, Donald Beach and Reed; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a son, Todd; and two brothers, David and Raymond Beach.

Contributions may be made to the church benevolence fund, 675 Blue Mountain Drive, Cherryville, 18035.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman-Stephens Funeral Home P.C., Allentown.