Lester Fred Reichel

Lester Fred Reichel was peacefully called to Heaven by his Savior on Friday, December 14, 2018.  He was born December 23, 1921, to the late Fredrick and Emma (Eichorst) Reichel in Appleton.  Lester was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church and remained a faithful member all his life.  He attended St. Paul Ev. Lutheran School and graduated from Appleton High School in 1940.  He married Helen Jean Schnabl on November 5, 1953, at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church in Appleton and they enjoyed 58 years together.

Lester served in the Air Force during World War II as a B-17 pilot.  His interest in aviation continued with his hobby shop in downtown Appleton “Model Airplanes and Supplies”.

Lester worked as a carpenter for Attractive Homes Company which his father started during the depression.  He then was self-employed as L F Reichel, Inc. and did remodeling and repairs until his retirement.  Lester was a talented craftsman who designed and built many treasured items.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary, Appleton; Amy (Jeff) Harr, MN; two beloved grandchildren, Thomas and Emma Harr; a brother, Earl (Elnor) Reichel, Madison; a sister, Elda O’Connell, MN; nieces, nephews and cousins; and many wonderful friends.

Lester is preceded in death by his wife, “Jeanie”; his parents; a brother, Wayne Reichel; a sister, Doris (Raymond) Michler; and a sister-in-law, Grace (Glenn) Schwerke.

Funeral services for Lester will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, December 21, 2018 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church at 302 N. Morrison St., Appleton, with Rev. Kenneth Frey officiating.  Visitation will be at the Church from 9:30 am until the time of service.  Interment will take place at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.valleyfh.com.

A memorial fund will be established for St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church and Fox Valley Lutheran High School.

Lester’s family extends heartfelt thanks to his Christian caregivers Deb, Janet, and Elaine who made it possible for him to remain in his home.  We also thank all his medical caregivers, friends, and church family for their generosity, compassion and support.

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