Jay A. Kichline

Jay A. Kichline, 68, passed away Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Lutheran Home at Topton. Born in Fort Walton Beach FL, Jay was the son of the late Jean (Heckman) and Ronald D. Kichline. He was a 1975 graduate of William Allen High School. Prior to his retirement in 2016, Jay owned and operated Rainbow Painters from 1984-2015. He also worked as a Master Mechanic and Shop Steward at Lehigh Valley International Airport in 2006. A passionate outdoorsman, Jay enjoyed hiking and mountain climbing. Among his accomplishments were ascents of Mt. McKinley, Mt. Rainier and Mt. Washington. He was also an avid whitewater kayaker and canoer. Jay was a committed baseball and basketball coach for many years. He served as head coach for his sons' teams at the West End Youth Center, Laurys Station and North Parkland Athletic Association. He also coached girls' basketball at Orefield Middle School and Parkland High School. In addition to coaching, he enjoyed playing softball, basketball and bowling in several leagues. He also loved photography, philosophy, music and literature, most notably Tolkien.

Survivors include his sons, Jacob A. of Topton and Samuel A. of Bethlehem, brother, Joel A. and wife, Dori of Allentown, nieces, Molly A. (Karmonick), Kelsey A. (Gardiner) and nephew, James (Cusati-Moyer) and cousins.