Beatrice M. Keppel, 87, of Lancaster, died Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at the Glen at Willow Valley, Lancaster, PA.  She had been under the care of Hospice of Lancaster County.

She was the wife of the late Robert F. Keppel, Jr. who died in 1997.  Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Sarah Marks, who settled their young family in Lancaster in the 1920's.

Bea graduated from Sacred Heart Academy and from the Lancaster Business College.  As a young woman during WWII she worked in the administrative offices of the Armstrong Cork Co. munitions division and later in the foreign operations division.  She also assisted her husband Bob in his candy manufacturing and brokerage business and served as the board secretary of Keppel's Incorporated. 

As a young lady and devout Catholic, she was a member of St. Anthony of Padua parish, later Historic St. Mary's and recently St. John Neumann's parish.  Her volunteer work included the Auxiliary of the former St. Joseph's Hospital and the Womens' Republican Club.  She was a member of the Lancaster Silver Threads and Dance Club of the Month. An avid golfer, she was a longtime member of Media Heights Golf Club, active in the Woman's Golf Association and the 18 Hole Group. Bea enjoyed sailing, reading, playing bridge, and the Avalon beach.

Bea is survived by a daughter, Dr. Christina C. Keppel, of Mequon, WI, and two sons, Robert F. Keppel III of Cinnaminson, NJ and Michael E. Keppel of Lancaster, a grandson, Christopher W. Keppel, sister-in-law Barbara Marks, of Lancaster, nephews, Tom, John, James, and Bill, and a niece, Sue. She was preceded in death by a brother, Lloyd Marks, of Lancaster.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 11:00 AM from St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Road, Lancaster, PA with Msgr. Richard Youtz as Celebrant.  A viewing will be held at the church from 9:30-11am.  Final Commendation and Farewell will take place from St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bea's memory may be made to St. Joseph Health Ministries 1929 Lincoln Highway East Lancaster, PA 17602. Arrangements made by Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Chapel 717-560-5100. To send the family online condolences please visit snyderfuneralhome.com