Berks funeral director seeking county coroner post
Matthew Stitzel has a long history of handling death with compassion and professionalism. For the past three decades he has served as a funeral director in Berks County. And he thinks his experience serving thousands of families in their time of need makes him the perfect candidate to serve as county coroner.
'I believe my experience and my passion for serving others uniquely position me to make a meaningful impact in this role,' the Spring Township Republican said.
Matt Stitzel, candidate for Berks County coroner (Courtesy of Matt Stitzel)
Stitzel is the second candidate to announce a run for the office. He will face incumbent John Fielding, who is seeking a second term in the post, in the Republican primary.
The coroner investigates deaths independent of the police. The office also rules on the cause and manner of sudden, unexplained or unnatural deaths, as well as natural deaths that occur outside the presence of medical officials.
Stitzel said his candidacy for coroner is built on a foundation of years of dedicated service, a deep respect for the community and a genuine desire to help those who are navigating their way through the loss of a loved one.
'I believe public service is a privilege,' he said. 'I know I can bring a fresh perspective to the office, and I will work tirelessly to serve with integrity, compassion and dedication.'
Stitzel said that if voters give him an opportunity to serve he plans to take an active role in the daily duties of the office — something he says is lacking under the leadership of Fielding.
'While the office has evolved into more of an administrative function, I believe it is essential for the coroner to personally be involved and assume a stronger presence in the community,' he said. 'I will ensure that every case receives the personal attention it deserves, and that the community receives the high standard of care it has the right to expect.'
The 54-year-old noted that as the owner of two funeral homes he has the knowledge needed to excel in the administrative side of the post. He has experience dealing with budgets, paperwork related to matters of death and overseeing a team of people.
'I have served thousands of Berks County residents, I have done the work necessary for this position, I have been available 24 hours a day my entire career,' he said. 'I think my qualities and perspective make me the best candidate for this position.'
Stitzel plans to continue that work even if elected, saying he will maintain ownership of his funeral homes. He believes that would pose no conflict of interest to his duties as coroner as they often share a list of funeral homes to those in need of those services.
'Those who know me know that I will do the right thing when no one is watching,' he said. 'I think that the majority of coroners in Pennsylvania are funeral directors, and I'm sure that all of them are serving with the highest level of compassion and integrity.'
The county coroner serves a four-year term and currently receives an annual salary of $101,694.
The primary is May 20.
Meet the candidate
Candidate: Matthew Stitzel, 54, Spring Township.
Position sought: Berks County coroner.
Background: Stitzel owns and operates two Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory locations in Berks County. He has also served as a firefighter and engineer with Spring Township and Goodwill fire companies, and is an advisory board member for Caron Treatment Centers.
Website: Stitzel2025.com
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