Richard S. Runkel, 99, of Jonestown, passed away on Thursday, September 16, 2021, at his home. He was the husband of the late Gladys J. Pittenger Runkel.
Born in Lebanon on April 15, 1922, he was the son of the late Ralph and Edith B. Runkel. As a boy, he was an Eagle Scout and Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 32 in Jonestown. He was awarded 25 merit badges. He was a star soccer player for the Jonestown High School team. He was a U.S. Army veteran of WW II. He retired from the Lebanon Steel Foundry where he had been a mold/core maker. Richard was a member of the Jonestown American Legion Post 883. He enjoyed woodworking, and for many years he and his wife ran a small ceramics business that supplied a local florist with holiday decorative items.
He is survived by his sons Richard J. (Betty) of FL, Denis R. (Joan) of Annville and James B. Runkel of Lebanon; six grandchildren, Ashley (Durran) Leaman, David and Brian Runkel, Staci (John) Martin, Eric and Christopher Runkel and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, David M. and David’s wife, Dianne Runkel.
A graveside service will be held at the family’s convenience at Zion’s Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Jonestown for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jonestown American Legion Post 883, 334 North Lancaster Street, Jonestown, PA 17038.
