Richard S. Stiefel, Jr., 44, of Muhlenberg Twp., died peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 22, 2011, surrounded by his loving family after fighting a lengthy battle. He was the husband of Tara A. (Kline) Stiefel. They were married on September 5, 1998 and celebrated 13 years of marriage.

Born in West Reading, he was the son of Anna Mae (Hoffman) Stiefel, Muhlenberg Twp.; and the late Richard S. Stiefel, Sr. He was a 1985 graduate of Schuylkill Valley High School. Richard worked as a welder for Dora Mae, Muhlenberg Twp., last working in June. He was a member of Salem (Belleman's) Church, Centre Twp. Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved to be outside. He also participated in Demolition Derbys.

Surviving in addition to his wife and mother is one son: Richard S. "Junior" Stiefel, III, at home; one sister: Robin S. (Stiefel), wife of Gary Phillips, Ontelaunee Twp.; his niece and nephew: Brianan and Brandon Strand; father-in-law: Rodney L. Kline, Dauberville; and brother-in-law: Rodney S. Kline, Laureldale. Richard is also survived by his maternal grandmother: Sarah Hoffman, Mohrsville.

Services will be held on Friday at 11:00 am from Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 2115 Main Street, Centerport, with Rev. Bruce W. Potteiger officiating. Burial will be in Fairview (Belleman's) Cemetery, Centre Twp. A viewing will be held in the funeral home Friday 9:30 to 11:00 am. The family requests that memorial contributions be sent to Mrs. Tara A. Stiefel, c/o Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 65 S. 4th Street, Hamburg, PA 19526, to establish a trust fund for Richard's infant son, Richard S. Stiefel, III. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.