William G. Malkames Esq.

On January 23, 2025, Allentown lost one of its prominent attorneys. William G. Malkames passed away quietly at the age of 91 surrounded by his wife and friends. Born in Hazleton, PA on November 12, 1933, during the Great Depression to parents Carl and Mildred, Bill became a prominent attorney in Allentown for over 65 years. After graduating from Hazleton High School in 1950, he attended Muhlenberg College on a full academic scholarship. He was the 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 where 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 the 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. Bill 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 the year 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 Bill. Together they shared a love of animals and at one point had 4 beautiful dogs, along with other pets. He is survived by his wife, Lori; son Bill and grandson Kurt; his daughter Susan and her husband Gregory Glass, and their children: Elizabeth and her husband Justin Daering, and William; his Stepson Luke Molchany and his children Brock, Maxwell, Aitrus, and Aveline. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Malkames, and the mother of his children, Mae Slebodnik, and his brother, Robert C. Malkames. Service: Funeral services will be held 10:30 am. Friday, January 31, 2025, at Bethany United Methodist Church, 3801 Brookside Road, Macungie. The Rev. David R. Alderson will be officiating. Family, colleagues, clients, and friends may pay their respects from 6:00 pm. – 8:00 pm. Thursday at the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville. Entombment will follow the service at Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at www.heintzelmancares.com. Contributions: 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.