Richard H. Voortman, 86, of Mertztown, died March 4, 2024 in Lehigh Valley Hospice - Inpatient.  Born in Center Valley, he was the son of the late Gertrude (Snyder) and John J. Voortman, Sr.  He was a lifelong farmer and ended his "day job" years at Kutztown Area School District, retiring from his role as custodian at Greenwich Elementary in 2002. His retirement allowed him to focus all of his energy on his true vocation, growing a vast array of produce in his vegetable garden, where his green thumb fed family, friends, and countless patrons of roadside farm stands in the area. Richard was a true Pennsylvania Dutchman and always had a warm and ready smile for all who met him.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Joanna L. Voortman; brother, Norman Voortman; sister, Verna Fair.  He was predeceased by siblings, Mildred Crush, Pearl Beck, John Voortman Jr, James Voortman, Carl Voortman, Arnold Voortman, Henry Voortman, Dorothy Smith, and Arlene Voortman.

Funeral services will be held on Fri., March 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM in Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., 250 Main St., Emmaus.  Viewing 10:00 to 11:00 AM in the funeral home.  Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery, Coopersburg.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Heritage Conservancy, 85 Dublin Pike, Doylestown, PA 18901.