Richard H. Suess, 88

July 16, 2025

Richard H. Suess, 88, of Leola, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 16, 2025. Born on the family homestead in Lititz, he was the son of the late August and Anna E. Suess.

From a young age, Richard worked alongside his family on the family’s farm, developing a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. Following high school, he continued with farming, until he joined the Army and trained as a Medical Specialist, and proudly served his country in the Army Reserves for 5 years. After his military service, Richard began a 39-year career with Quaker State Metals\Howmet\Alumax, where he was known for his dedication and precision in mill roll maintenance.

Richard had a lifelong passion for creating. In the 1970s and ’80s, he designed and built many grandfather and grandmother clocks, a talent he first displayed in high school when he built his first clock. Mechanically inclined and a precisionist, he was also a model train builder and enthusiast. One of his proudest accomplishments was a replica of the Horseshoe Curve in Altoona, PA, a project he completed over 25 years, complete with functioning trains, surrounding towns and an amusement park. It was a special place he often visited with his family.

In his younger years, Richard was a car enthusiast and drag raced. Later in life, he shared that passion with his son Kevin, and they also participated and traveled together for events with the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA).

Richard was a devoted family man who enjoyed being surrounded by those he loved. He found joy in baking in his later years, often treating his family to homemade pies. He was also the family’s official cat sitter.

He is survived by his children: Kimberly Almodovar (Tony Almodovar) and Randy Suess (Robin Suess); his step sons Mike Hall and Steve Hall; seven grandchildren; and eight great- grandchildren. He is preceded in his passing by his beloved wife Carol Suess and his son Kevin Suess (husband of Tina Suess) and his brother Herman Suess.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Salem Lutheran Church, 26 Owl Hill Rd, Lititz, PA 17543, with interment to follow in the church cemetery.