Obituaries
Earl Thomas Kegel, 62
January 19, 2016
Earl Thomas Kegel, 62, of Drumore, PA, passed away Tuesday, January 19 at his home with his beloved family by his side.
Known to his family as Tom, Tommy, or Pappy, and to most people as Earl, he was the husband of Vicky Lynn Kegel. They were married on Valentine’s Day in 1974, and would be celebrating their forty-second wedding anniversary.
Earl was born in Lancaster on September 21, 1953, to the late Clarence and Doris Kegel.
In addition to his wife, Earl is survived by three children, Earl Jr, Jesse, and Sarah, all residing in Southern Lancaster County, and also by grandson Dylan.
Earl is also survived by a large family of siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Siblings are Dr. Margaret Kegel Cooke, Dr. Cynthia Kegel, Clarence C. Kegel, Jr., Esq., Robert J. Kegel, J. David Kegel, and half sisters Anna Mae Hauck and Doris Blanford.
Together with his brother David, Earl owned and managed Kegel’s Seafood restaurant from 1988 to 2008. His first job was with Kegel’s Produce, which was founded by his beloved Uncle Earl Kegel for whom he was named. His adventuresome side was shown by his next job in which he traveled across the country as a chimney sweep. He started work at Kegel’s Seafood in the 1970s, continued to work there after its sale in 2008, and thereafter worked for a period of time at Mr. Bill’s Seafood.
So, except for the chimney sweep adventure, basically 3 jobs during his lifetime—Kegel’s, Kegel’s, and Mr. Bill’s. But throughout the same dedication to family, zest for life, and compassion for others
Kegel’s Seafood was founded in 1941 by Earl’s father, and for many years was “the seafood restaurant” not only immensely popular among Lancaster County residents–but with many regular customers from surrounding counties. Earl was extraordinarily knowledgeable about everything seafood, and was very proud of his part in making the restaurant an icon for so many years. Many other Kegel family members worked at the restaurant. In addition to his father and mother, partner/brother David, and others who worked there for shorter periods of time, long time family member employees included his sons Jesse and Earl Jr., his daughter Sarah, Aunt Mary Wolf, Uncle Donny Beachler, cousin Jimmy Lenox, cousin Mary Lou Hess, and Bobby Hurst who was like a family member and worked there for approximately 60 years from age 14 until his retirement. Also like family members, three of the Warwood girls also worked there from time to time. Somewhat anomalous for the hospitality industry, the restaurant had many long time employees, many 30 years and longer, and many of whom became like family. Truly a family business!
Seafood was very much part of the Kegel family. The restaurant had its roots in a seafood stand outside Lancaster’s Southern market operated by Earl’s grandfather, father, and two uncles starting around 1915. For many years Earl’s Uncle George and cousin George Kegel operated a wholesale seafood business and also retail seafood stands at the Southern market and also Lancaster’s Central market.
Earl was also proud to see the famous Kegel’s oyster pies become part of the offerings at Mr. Bills so Lancastrians can continue to enjoy this popular dish.
Earl was a very proud individual. He was always concerned about others. He had a big smile, a tender heart, an adventuresome spirit, and a strong work ethic. Like his father, Earl loved to tell stories and jokes and make people laugh.
Like his parents, Earl took care of his employees, often at personal sacrifice. Simply stated, he was selfless—and cared more about others than himself. Unfortunately, to a fault. Very unusual in today’s World.
Earl loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman, hunter, and part-time farmer.
Fishing—mostly deep sea fishing– was a passion acquired from his father. As a boy there was fresh water fishing in the North East River and the Chesapeake, and many fishing trips off Cape May, N.J, Ocean City Maryland, and in Florida. After his marriage, Earl’s favorite spot was Cape Hatteras, N.C., where he vacationed every year with his family and had a fishing boat for a period of time. The number of big tuna, marlin, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and sharks caught in these waters is too big to count.
And then there are the ocean miracles of whales and “flying fish.” Unbelievable until you see it !
Earl was especially proud of the 550 pound blue marlin that hung on the walls of Kegel’s Seafood for many years, together with other trophies caught by his father, his brother David, and Earl’s children. Earl relished being on the ocean no matter how high the waves—always looking for a sword or dorsal fin coming out of the turbulence, or a flock of birds signaling a feeding frenzy.
Now, he will be seeing his mother again–and again sharing ocean tales with his father!
Oyster season was a big time for Earl. Customers were always asking “when will oyster season start?” Earl looked forward to this important date that came every year in September. Kegel’s oysters mainly came from Chincoteague, Virginia, and Earl also enjoyed the annual Chincoteague oyster festival.
Earl also loved hunting, and there were many trips to the mountains, often with his life-time friend Craig Warwood.
On his little farm, Earl grew tomatoes and other vegetables that were not only delicious, but that became part of the restaurant menu—adding a special touch of home grown, farm fresh, organic vegetables– long before “organic” and “farm fresh” were popularized. This was a special and very real touch not found in many other places.
Earl was also a great cook!
Most of all, Earl loved his wife Vicky and their immediate family. He was extremely proud of his children, and held a special place in his heart for his grandson Dylan, with whom he loved to spend time “doing chores” around the farm.
Earl enjoyed the restaurant, particularly the many friendships developed with the many customers to whom he was very dedicated.
In addition to the annual trip to Hatteras, a highlight of every Summer was a pig roast that Earl held for customers and friends and that became a popular event anticipated every year by many. Sometimes there was more fun than can be placed in print!
In past years, Earl was an active member of the Elks Club, Lodge #134, and he greatly enjoyed and appreciated the club for its good work supporting youth in our community, and because of the camaraderie among members and his father’s prior leadership of the club.
Work hard, play hard, cherish and enjoy your family and friends—that was Earl!
Please join Earl’s family in Celebrating His Life at 2 PM on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 441 N. George St., Millersville, PA 17551. Friends will be received from 1-2 PM at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Drumore Cemetery following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Elks Club Lodge # 134, 219 North Duke St., Lancaster, Pa, or to the charity of your choice.
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Condolences to the Family
March 13, 2016
Very sorry to just read of Tommy’s passing. I along with many others enjoyed working for Dave and Tom, and earlier for Mrs. Kegel (mother). So many memories of continuous days that turned to years and decades of hard, but joyous work are flooding my mind. Tommy definetly worked hard and played hard. I’m very sure that Tom enjoyed life and so glad to hear of his time with Dylan. From my remberence and reading these posts Tom knew lots of love.
Sincerely, Sharon And Barb Taylor.
February 24, 2016
Our Prayers go out to Earl’s family. We were so shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. We enjoyed so many wonderful times at the restaurant and JC and Earl went back to the good old days when they were rip roarin’ young men. Just recently we recalled so many fun times we shared at Kegel’s and how much we missed those times and talking to Earl and exchanging stories. You are in our hearts and prayers. Rest now Earl… knowing you made many lives much brighter.
J. C. and Carole Hale
January 30, 2016
Clarence, David & Families,
With such deep sadness in knowing of Tommy’s passing do you have our sincere sympathy. Our hearts and thoughts are with you all at this time. May the love and reflection of Tommy life and spirit help heal the wounds of your loss.
Jeff LeFevre with Stephanie Shertzer Lawson
January 30, 2016
Ann and I were sadden to hear of Toms departure I remember him well when he delivered produce for kegels and also his wit at the restaurant. He will be missed in this world.
Tom and Ann Rothfus
Market Fare Restaurant
January 29, 2016
I was deeply saddened by the news of Earl’s passing. I will always remember him coming through the kitchen door at the restaurant with his warm smile and hearty voice. He always made everyone feel welcome and it seemed that he knew all his customers by their first names. He is truly one of the finest people I have ever known. I was fortunate to be able to accompany him on a few fishing trips and I remember how he would cheer everyone up with fishing stories when the fish weren’t biting, which wasn’t very often on Earl’s trips. I know Earl wouldn’t want anyone to be saddened by his passing and remembering his smile and kind demeanor makes it easier to bear the loss. Thanks Earl, for being who you are, we will never forget you.
Vaughn Ferich
January 29, 2016
Sending condolences on behalf of the Rawlinsville Hotel Dart Team.
Barry Lee Brennan
January 27, 2016
MY CONDOLENCES TO THE KEGEL FAMILY , MAY TOMMY REST IN PEACE TONY ROSCHEL
January 26, 2016
We are saddened to hear about the passing of Tom. Tom and David were always so kind to us at the restaurant. It was a favorite place for our whole family. We send our thoughts and prayers to you at this sad time. We have fine memories of Tom. He was a great man.
Cate Maloney and Mike
Liam Maloney
January 25, 2016
Vick.. It’s Kathy (Kissinger).. I just heard about Tom I have just moved back home and have been trying to reach you! I am devastated to hear about Tom.. please call me: 580-471-4739. I will be there for sure on Saturday.
Love you still….
January 25, 2016
I’m very sorry to hear of Uncle Tom’s passing. Many memories of Tom. One that stands out the most. I was a young boy ( 8 or 10 years old), I would go along with drivers at my families business ( Kegel’s Produce ). One day Tom was driving. We were parked at farmers market near Littiz making a delivery. I was in the truck after the delivery. I moved the stick shift and the truck started rolling backwards. Tom jumped behind the truck and stopped it before it crashed through the garage door.
Kenny Myers
Kegel’s Produce
January 25, 2016
We were saddened to hear of “Uncle Earl’s” passing here outside of Pittsburgh. Prayers and Love to all of the family and friends who had an opportunity to be touched by this great guy. He will surely live on in all of us and our memories of the laughter, fishing, billiards, outer banks and restaurant days – with many more. Those stories will be with us forever. He always had a smile, a twinkle in his eye, and warmth in his heart. Much love to Vicky, Sarah, Jesse, Tommy and Dylan.
John and Kerry Kain
January 25, 2016
Dear old friend,
We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, for Auld Lang Syne. Jala Magik, Norfolk, Virginia
January 24, 2016
Gary and I were saddened to hear of Earl’s passing. All our prayers and love are sent to Vicky, Jesse, Tommy and Sarah. Dylan is a part of the family we have not had the privledge of meeting yet. Earl I’m sure was a GREAT Pappy. Memories we will cherish forever in our adventurous passings throughout life’s journey. Hugs and Kisses from Trout Creek, Montana.
Gary and Patti Reiter
January 24, 2016
I remember Earl fondly and commisserate upon his passing.
D.D. Delaney, Norfolk, VA
January 24, 2016
To Vicky,Earl Jr, Jesse, and Sarah, I am so sorry for your loss. We lost a great guy. I loved his caring attitude, his soft spoken demeanor, his wonderful smile and laugh and his wonderful expertise in cooking you the best dishes with love and care. I remember my girlfriend and I years ago looking forward to going into Kegels and he always wanted to make a special dish for us, even when it wasnt on the menu. I feel like and have known him forever and have. He will truly be mssed by all. RI.P Tommy!!! Vicky and family you are in our thoughs and prayers.love Bob and Terry Nolt
January 24, 2016
All our love and thoughts to Vicky, Earl Jr, Jessy, and Sarah we are here for you in this time of loss. Try to remember all the good times we had together. Xxoo ❤️❤️❤️ RIP Tommy thank you for all the wonderful times we shared together. I will never foget catching my first Tuna with you an David in Hatteras you will truely be missed beyond words. Love you huge. John and Renee Treier
January 24, 2016
I am truly sorry to learn of Earl’s passing. I was out of town on business this week, and “Tommy” popped into my ahead and I was just thinking of him, out of the blue! Tommy was always a big part of why I enjoyed visiting the restaurant! His friendly, easy going demeanor, and pleasant greeting was so remarkable and appreciated! My heartfelt respect for Dave, and the rest of your family!
Brett Stabley
January 24, 2016
We are so sad to read of Tommy’s passing. He was always sincere when we talked about family and life. I miss his cooking and tasty specials. Please know your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. We will be out of the state next Saturday but prayers will be coming your way. He loved you all so much. My father sends his thoughts and prayers.
Peace and love,
Mary Lynn Hobday & Mike DiPaolo
January 23, 2016
Sending prayers and hugs to all Tommy’s family from Anna Mae and Family
Jamie Stahl
January 23, 2016
I am so sad to hear of the passing of Uncle Tommy. Although I haven’t seen him for many, many years, I will always remember him from when we visited PopPop and MomMom. He was a happy young man and always made us feel welcome and part of the family. Please accept my sincere condolences and prayers. Debbie (Cummings) Diersch
- Visitation
- Saturday, January 30, 2016
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 441 North George Street
- Millersville, PA 17551
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Saturday, January 30, 2016
- 2:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 441 North George Street
- Millersville, PA 17551
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
