The peaceful death of Lester Charles Kish at 81 closes a chapter of remarkable dedication and impact.
Lester Charles Kish built an extraordinary career that spanned athletics, education, and community service, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
His journey from a small-town athlete to a respected educator and coach exemplifies dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Kish’s athletic prowess emerged early during his time at Phillipsburg High School, where he graduated in 1962 as a standout multi-sport athlete.
He earned seven varsity letters across football, wrestling, and baseball while simultaneously serving in student leadership roles as class president and student council vice-president.
His versatility extended beyond athletics, as he worked as a disc jockey on “The Teenage Review,” showcasing his charismatic personality that would later serve him well in coaching.
The 1960 football season marked a pinnacle of Kish’s high school career when he helped lead Phillipsburg to a state championship.
His exceptional performance earned him recognition as a New Jersey All-State quarterback and second baseman, along with the prestigious Lehigh Valley Scholar-Athlete of the Year award.
Kish continued his athletic and academic excellence at Lehigh University, where he earned six varsity letters in football and baseball.
He achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first sophomore named Outstanding Player of the Lehigh-Lafayette Game.
The Eastern College Athletic Conference recognized his consistent performance by naming him ECAC Player of the Week multiple times.
Following his college career, Kish transitioned seamlessly into coaching and education, where he would make his most lasting impact.
He began by guiding young athletes at Lehigh University and Dieruff High School before accepting the head football coach position at Allen High School in Allentown.
His coaching philosophy emphasized both athletic excellence and character development, principles that resonated throughout his career.
The 1973 season stands as a crowning achievement in Kish’s coaching career when his Allen High School Canary team captured the Big 6 Championship with a historic 8-2 record.
In 1982, Kish expanded his influence by accepting the position of Athletic Director at Allen High School, a role he held with distinction for over 17 years.
During his tenure, he founded the Allen High School Hall of Fame, creating a lasting tribute to athletic excellence.
His contributions to District XI athletics earned him recognition and respect from peers throughout the region.
Throughout his career, Kish maintained strong connections to his community and heritage. He volunteered at the Lehigh Valley History Center, where he helped preserve local stories and traditions.
Lester Kish’s Death Marks The End Of A Life Of Service
Lester Charles Kish passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 81, marking the end of an era for the many communities he served throughout his remarkable life.
His death occurred peacefully, surrounded by the love of family members who had been blessed by his presence for decades.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his son Bryan G. Kish and wife Melissa of Orefield, daughter Corey E. Bergstein and her husband Joseph, and four cherished grandchildren: Mason, Elya, Baylee, and Zoey. Paulette J. Kish, the mother of his children, also survives him.
Born on January 4, 1944, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, Kish lived a full life that spanned more than eight decades of service, achievement, and devotion to others.
He was the second child of Geza and Elizabeth Kish, growing up in a close-knit Hungarian-American family that instilled in him the values of tradition, faith, and the importance of laughter in daily life.
The news of Kish’s passing sent ripples of grief throughout the athletic and educational communities where he had made such a profound impact.
Former players, colleagues, and friends remembered him not just for his professional accomplishments but for his genuine care for others and his ability to inspire excellence in everyone he encountered.
His death represents the loss of a true mentor and father figure to countless individuals who benefited from his guidance over the years.
Kish’s influence extended far beyond the football field or athletic director’s office, as he touched lives through his roles as a teacher, coach, and community leader.
Funeral services for Lester Charles Kish were scheduled for Monday, June 16, 2025, at 12 noon at the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home located at 16th and Hamilton Streets in Allentown.
The family planned a calling hour from 10:30 A.M. to 12 noon at the funeral home, providing an opportunity for friends, former players, colleagues, and community members to pay their final respects.
His final resting place was designated as Cedar Hill Memorial Park at 1700 Airport Road in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where he would be laid to rest among the community he served so faithfully for decades.
Kish’s death marks the end of a life characterized by service, excellence, and genuine care for others.
His legacy lives on through the countless individuals he mentored, the programs he built, and the family traditions he established.
As noted in his obituary, he will be remembered for “his boundless heart, his booming voice at the sidelines, his steadfast support, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.”
In Case You Didn’t Know
- He served as an Elder at Alpha Presbyterian Church, where his spiritual roots first grew and he maintained his lifelong faith.
- He was a constant presence at poker games, enjoying regular social gatherings with friends beyond just reunions and sports events.
- He engaged in “porch talks” and local sports banter, showing his love for casual conversation and staying connected to his community through informal discussions.
