Obituaries

Kenneth E. “Ken” Brackbill, 66

November 12, 2025

Kenneth E. “Ken” Brackbill, 66, of Willow Street, passed away unexpectedly at his home on November 12, 2025. Born and raised in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Norman E. and Ruth N. (Groff) Brackbill.

Ken loved nothing more than being a grandfather or more affectionately “Pappy” to his grandchildren Landyn Barr, Madison Shaubach, and Hailey Petrondi. His family was his whole world.

To say Ken was a good man would be an understatement. There are no words to express his influence on those around him. Ken was always willing to help and give advice – he was the first to show up and the last to leave. Known for his tireless dedication and commitment to excellence, Ken left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.

Ken loved the beach, fishing, camping, boating, hunting, cooking, playing poker with his friends, and especially goofing around. He was the life of the party and without a doubt the loudest man in the room. But more than that, he had a gift of making everyone feel like family – whether you were a lifelong friend, a new acquaintance, or even a neighbor, you were welcome into his world with open arms.

Ken will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, especially his wife Diane (Brooks) Brackbill; their daughters, Angela Brackbill (Bill Barr) of New Providence, and Amy Brackbill of Willow Street; grandchildren Landyn Barr, Madison Shaubach, and Hailey Petrondi; his siblings, Edward Brackbill (Debra), Thomas Brackbill (Bonita), Barry Brackbill (Gretchen), Michael Brackbill, and a sister in law, Eileen Brackbill, as well as countless nieces and nephews. He was preceded in passing by his brother David Brackbill and sister, Susan Aukamp.

A Memorial Service honoring Ken will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Wesley Church, 1104 Kirkwood Pike, Quarryville, PA 17566, beginning at 11 AM. The family will greet guests from 10 AM until the time of service. Family, friends, and all who knew him are invited to attend. The family encourages all guests to dress casually.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, friends honor Ken’s memory by sharing a Miller Lite and a happy story, just as Ken would have done.

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Condolences to the Family

November 20, 2025

I was still trying to get used to not working with Ken every day when I heard the news of his passing. He was the humble magic behind every project.  I called him “Can-Do Kenny” because he truly made anything possible. I’m so grateful for the work we tackled side by side and the laughter he brought to my life. Kenny was one of the hardest-working people I’ve ever known, but he never lost sight of what mattered most. He’d wrap up the day saying he was heading home to see his grandchildren.
My deepest condolences to his family. He’ll be missed. Sandra Mulry

November 20, 2025

Our deepest sympathies for Ken’s family, will never forget growing up with THE BRACKBILL BOYS and all the crazy stuff we did at Huber’s Campground, our thoughts and prayers are with you all Love Cindy and Jeff Patton

November 19, 2025

my condolences to the Brackbill family I knew Kenny since all elementary school. He was a great friend. I worked with Kenny on a lot of different projects. It was a hell of a craftsman and an awesome man. He will be missed RIP Kenny
John pfautz

November 17, 2025

I am greatful I had the opportunity to meet Kenny many years ago through our mutual Friend, Rand Henry.  It’s hard to fathom that both my fishing buddies have suddenly left us this year.
I hounded both these guys to retire so we could fish when ever we wanted- dammit-that never happened.
I found Kenny to be quite the craftsman and fearless in every capacity.   He was someone you could count on.  We always had a blast when we were together.  I was on many escapades with he and Rand, and yes I was the target of his jokes on occasion.  I learned to second guess what he said, as pranks were around every corner.  
He worked very hard, but when we could pull him away, he played hard too.
We were out on the river and he and Rand decided to enjoy their milller lites while captain Kirby (for the first time) is trying to maneuver the boat up river through the rocks. The two of them barking go right,  go left, go faster, which I too late figured out had no basis in reality.  I looked around and they are both laughing hysterically.  Then we hit the rocks and destroyed the propeller and they scream at me for doing it!  Luckily another boater came by or we would have floated all the way to Havre DeGrace. 
My sincere condolences to his wife, children, grand children and other family members.
A good man, taken too soon.
Kirby Wiest

November 17, 2025

We want to extend our sympathy to Ken’s wife Diane and children and all of the Brackbill family. We will remember him as a hard working man wanting the job done right and willing to step up and help. He seemed to love life and enjoyed being with people.  We’ve lost a good co-worker and friend. Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to everyone.  
Levi and Drema Work

November 17, 2025

I grew up with Ken but lost touch over the years I am so soory to here is has moved to a greater place then we could ever imancine Rest I peice my friend
Frank Shuman

November 16, 2025

So sorry to hear that Kenny had passed, he was always happy and so nice to everyone, he helped a lot of our family with building homes etc. I am sure he will be greatly missed. Prayers to all of you, God bless!
Jinny and Dick Rankin

November 16, 2025

Kenny thank you for being a great person, father, grandfather and husband. All of this is etched into our lives, you will always be remembered and never forgotten.  The memories and the great times will fill our lives until we meet again. What you gave us will strengthen us all to mourn this lose of your passing. The short time on earth has gotten all of us ready for the lifetime together in heaven. Thank you bud for the past 20 plus years of our friendship, and all the great times.
Denny Krause

November 16, 2025

My deepest condolences to your family. Kenny and the entire Brackbill family hold such fond and lasting memories for me. We all grew up together in the Smithfield area—through scouting events, countless sleepovers, and so many good old-fashioned fun times with our families gathered together. I’m truly sorry for your loss.  
Barb (Barron) Lapp  or as Kenny called me Barbie 
 

November 16, 2025

My sincere congratulations to your family.
Kenny was a very talented tradesman.
We worked together on many projects and I will miss him greatly.  
 
 
– Steve Little

November 16, 2025

My condolences to the Brackbill family, you’re in my thoughts and prayers. We all grew up together and have many memories of our Scouting days. We reconnected a few years ago when we found out we were in the same campground in Delaware. 🙏🙏🙏🙏 – Linda (Barron) Wallace

November 15, 2025

I worked with Kenny on a few projects, and I must say, his work was exceptional. Great guy, great sense of humor, always happy to praise your work, if he thought it was worth praising. I am certain he will be missed by many, gone way to soon.  – Barbara Wharton

November 15, 2025

I’ll never forget the last time Ken and I spent time together while our mother was still alive. Ken rolled her up into the van, strapped her in and off we went to visit family and pick up some food at the roadside market. It was hilarious. Just like Ken would want it to be. Mom got a kick out of it as well. If the Lord is looking for a leader with a great sense of humor, he’s reported for duty and will serve honorably. God speed brother Ken.  – Barry Brackbill

Visitation
Thursday, November 20, 2025
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wesley Church
1104 Kirkwood Pike
Quarryville, PA 17566
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Services
Thursday, November 20, 2025
11:00 AM
Wesley Church
1104 Kirkwood Pike
Quarryville, PA 17566
Map and Directions

Get Maps and Directions >
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