Kenneth M. Michael, 84, of Lebanon, passed away on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. He was the husband of Sandra (Brobst), with whom he shared 56 years of marriage.
Born in Lebanon, PA, on March 14, 1942, Kenneth (Ken) was a son of the late Myles Keating and Margaret (Magyar). He graduated from Lebanon High School, class of 1960. He proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he worked for nearly two decades as a Production Manager at Bethlehem Steel. He also worked for nearly three decades as a Purchasing Agent at the VA Medical Center until his retirement.
He was a member of St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Rescue Fire Company, and Maennerchor Club. Ken generously volunteered his time for three decades by being in charge of bingo and the summer festivals at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church and St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church. He also served as Eucharistic minister and usher and was a member of the church finance committee.
Ken enjoyed driving and exploring new places with his wife. They especially cherished their anniversary trips to the Chesapeake Bay area for fresh lobster. Closer to home, Ken loved visiting the Jigger Shop in Mount Gretna for one of his favorite treats, a banana split. This held an extra special place in his heart, as it was located near his childhood home in Cornwall, the very place where he grew up making memories with his cousins.
Ken loved sports. He enjoyed bowling, hunting, and Notre Dame football and was a lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox. At one time, he even coached several Little League teams. Above all, he was a dedicated worker and volunteer who was deeply devoted to his family. Ken was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who would do anything for the people he loved. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
In addition to his wife, Ken is survived by his son, Kenneth M. Michael Jr., husband of Lonna; daughter, Yvonne M. Gavalis, wife of Russell; grandchildren, McKenna and Brian, Kaley and Ryzeson, and Bradyn, Cayden, and Madelyn; brother, Warren Weiss, husband of Nancy; and stepbrother, Clarence Michael.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Clarence Michael; and beloved dog, Teddy Williams, fondly named after his favorite Boston Red Sox Player, Ted Williams.
Graveside service with full military honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. The procession will depart Thompson Funeral Home Inc., 126 S. 9th St., Lebanon, PA 17042, at 1:15 p.m. Those attending are asked to gather at the funeral home between 1-1:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Kenneth’s name may be made to the Humane Society of Lebanon County, 150 N. Ramona Road, Myerstown, PA 17067. The family welcomes your memories and messages in Thompson Funeral Home’s online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com.
