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Howard L. "Gramps" Kunkle

Howard L. "Gramps" Kunkle, 88, of Creekside, PA, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026.

He was born on January 2, 1938, in Washington Township, the son of Lyle Kunkle and Mae Elizabeth Bark. Early in life, Mae Elizabeth married Aquilla Jack and together they lovingly raised Howard.

Howard lived a life rich in love, laughter, and connection. Known to everyone simply as Gramps, he was warm-hearted, approachable, and genuinely personable. His easygoing nature and friendly smile made people feel instantly at home, and he truly never met a stranger. Howard married the late Lois Valgene (Schrecongost) Kunkle on Sept.13, 1959 and shared 34 wonderful years together.

Howard retired in 1993 after many years as a coal miner with R&P Coal and Tunnelton Coal. He was a proud member of the Keystone Sportsman Club and the Dart Players Club in Creekside. He was also the driving force behind organizing the reunion of the Kettering one-room schoolhouse, ensuring its memories were preserved for generations to come.

A devoted family man, Howard found his greatest joy in time spent with loved ones. He cherished the family camp in Benezette, delighted in playing Santa Claus for his family, and enthusiastically joined the kids for games of baseball. Howard also loved many animals throughout his life; including his best friend Brutus. Family, friendship, and simple moments together were what mattered most to him.

Howard's memory will be lovingly cherished by his sons, Wayne Kunkle and Barry Kunkle, both of Shelocta; daughters Diane Brewer and husband Richard of Indiana, and Connie Kellar and husband Ken of Shelocta; grandchildren Tabatha (Josh) Mano, Levi (Tristan) Brewer, Kayla (Jason) Livengood, Courtney (Jamie) Atwood, and Kisha (Bob) Ackerson; and great-grandchildren Lilly Mano, Blake Mano, Chloe Brewer, Riley Brewer, Ella Livengood, Bella Livengood, Chaz Atwood, Mason Atwood, Gracie Ackerson, and Paisley Ackerson.

Later in life, Howard was blessed to meet his companion of the past 20 years, Margaret Kunkle. Through this loving relationship, his family grew to include many extended children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Lois Valgene (Schrecongost) Kunkle, who passed away on May 16, 1993; and his half-sisters, Joanne Jeffries and Linda Smith.

Howard was a steady source of comfort, wisdom, and humor-always ready with a listening ear or a kind word. His down-to-earth spirit and people-oriented heart made him not only deeply loved, but truly unforgettable.

Though he will be deeply missed, Gramps' legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and love. The warmth he shared and the memories he created will be cherished forever.

Friends and family will be received from 6 - 8 PM on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026 at the Clark Chapel of the Bauer Funeral Home, Inc., 238 S. Main Street, Elderton, PA.

Additional visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026 at the funeral home with the Rev. Sharon Waltenbaugh officiating.

Interment will be in Elderton Cemetery, Elderton, PA.

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