James B. “Pappy” Runkel, 71, of Lebanon, passed away at his home on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024.

Born in Lebanon on Dec. 11, 1952, he was the son of the late Richard and Gladys Pittinger Runkel.

Pappy retired from Hershey Chocolate after 35 years of service. He was a member of the Lincoln Republican Club, the Lebanon VFW Post #23, the Jonestown American Legion, the Perseverance Fire Co., and the Lebanon Rescue Fire Co. He especially enjoyed riding his Harley.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley W., wife of Durran Leaman, of Stevens; brothers, Richard, husband of Betty Runkel, of FL, and Denis, husband of Joan Runkel, of Annville; and grandsons, Dade and Dean.

He was preceded in death by his brother, David Runkel.

A graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family at Zion’s Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery in Jonestown.