Kenneth Opel
Kenneth Opel, 93, of Uniontown, Pa., went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 17, 2017.
He was born Saturday, April 5, 1924 in Leckrone, Pa., son of the late Daniel Webster Opel and Carrie (Wiley) Opel.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Mark; a daughter ‘Kat’; many brothers and sisters.
Kenneth retired from West Penn Power Company in 1986 where he worked as a Mechanic for 24 years.
He served his country in the United States Air Force during World War II.
He had been a member of the Fayette Masonic Lodge 0228 for 50 years.
He served as Chief of Police for North Union Township and as a Private Investigator in his early years.
Following his retirement, he devoted his time to helping others with Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Fayette, and Meals on Wheels.
Into his 90’s, he tirelessly offered assistance or transportation to many people who relied on him
In 2004, he was recognized as a Community Champion by Comcast, the Post-Gazette, and the Pittsburgh Foundation for his selfless dedication to helping those in need. He was adored by his family and many friends.
Left to cherish his memory are his children: Jeff Opel, Alan Opel, Peggy Layhue and Frank Varto, Mary Lou McKenzie and husband Mack, Betsy Wilson and husband John, all of Uniontown, Pa., and Reta Gabriel and husband Paul of Morgantown, West Virginia; his grand children: Dawn Opel and Jeffrey Opel, Laura Provance, Leslie Rozak, Eddie Livingston, Meagan Wilson, Gina Hudock and Daniel Manchas, Paige Opel and Ashley Furnier, Julia Gabriel, Paul Gabriel Jr.; 15 great grandchildren; two great-great-grand children; a sister, Ruth Momeyer of California state; brothers, Robert Opel and wife Jane of Brownsville, Pa., Ronald Opel and wife Betty of Footedale, Pa., Dan Opel and wife Kathy of Uniontown, Pa.; many nieces and nephews and their families.
We especially thank Tammy Livingston, his devoted granddaughter-in-law, who brought him great comfort. We also thank his dear nieces and nephews for their kindness, as well as Susan Swartz, his wonderful caregiver.
Friends will be received at the STEPHEN R. HAKY FUNERAL HOME, INC., 603 North Gallatin Avenue Extension, Uniontown, Pa., on Thursday, April 20, from 1 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. and on Friday, April 21, from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., the hour of Service.
Interment will follow at Greendale Cemetery, Masontown, Pa., where Military Honors will be accorded by North Union Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8543.
The family asks that contributions in his memory be made to Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Fayette or Meals on Wheels.
Your personal written tributes and memories are welcomed and encouraged at www.hakyfuneralhome.com