On Jan. 23, 2025, Allentown lost one of its prominent attorneys, when William G. Malkames, 91, died quietly, surrounded by his wife and friends.

Born Nov. 12, 1933, in Hazleton, during the Great Depression, he was the son of Carl and Mildred.

He became a prominent attorney in Allentown for more than 65 years.

After graduating from Hazleton High School in 1950, he attended Muhlenberg College on a full academic scholarship.

He was president of the Student Council and graduated magna cum laude in 1954.

His standing earned him another full academic scholarship to the law school at the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1957.

He returned to Allentown where he established his law practice specializing in commercial real estate, zoning and estate planning.

He worked tirelessly and helped establish many of the local rules and regulations regarding commercial zoning in Allentown and the surrounding townships.

He also served as solicitor for the Allentown School District for 26 years from 1974-2000.

Designated as a top-rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbel, he was well-respected and admired by his clients, as well as many in the judiciary and bar in Lehigh County.

Later in life, he had the privilege of working at his practice with his two sons, Mark and William Jr.

Known for his intelligence, quick wit and competitive nature, he enjoyed the company of his many friends and often enjoyed playful challenges with others over crossword puzzles and card games.

He also enjoyed a good debate over culture, history, politics, and even esoteric topics, such as the music of Mozart which he studied intensely.

Between the ages of 55-65, he competed in 138 biathlons (running/biking) earning him All-American status and was an age-group National Biathlon Champion at the age of 64.

His dedicated training led to competing in World Championships in Spain, Italy and Mexico in the biathlon and competing in two marathons.

In 1999, he met the love of his life, Lori, and married in 2000, sharing 25 years together.

Together, they embarked on a wonderful journey of biking trips, traveling with friends, and hosting many a card night, which sometimes could become quite intense, but somehow never resulted in any losses for him.

Together, they shared a love of animals and at one point had four beautiful dogs, along with other pets.

He is survived by his wife, Lori; son Bill and grandson Kurt; daughter Susan and her husband, Gregory Glass, and their children Elizabeth and her husband, Justin Daering, and William; and stepson Luke Molchany and his children Brock, Maxwell, Aitrus and Aveline.

He was predeceased by his son, Mark Malkames; the mother of his children, Mae Slebodnik; and his brother, Robert C. Malkames.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 31 at Bethany United Methodist Church, 3801 Brookside Road, Macungie.

The Rev. David R. Alderson will officiate.

Family, colleagues, clients and friends may pay their respects from 6-8 p.m. Thursday in Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville.

Entombment will follow the service at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered at heintzelmancares.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Last Chance Ranch, c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.