David Ellsworth Kimmel, Jr's Obituary
David Ellsworth Kimmel Jr., 65, of Tavares, Fla., formerly of Dillsburg, Pa., went to be with his Lord on Sept. 12, 2010 after a short but courageous battle with cancer. David was born on Aug. 24, 1945 in Mechanicsburg, Pa., the first child of Isabelle (Bittinger) Kimmel, Dillsburg, and the late David E. Kimmel Sr. David graduated from Northern High School in 1963 and attended Penn State University until joining the U.S. Army in 1964. He proudly served his country as an automotive and heavy equipment mechanic, stationed in Germany until 1968. Upon arriving home, David worked as a mechanic at area businesses and as a commercial truck driver. He also served on the board of directors of the Cumberland-Perry Vocational-Technical School. He greatly enjoyed his days as a driver of late model stock cars, racing at Williams Grove, Silver Springs, Trailways and Susquehanna speedways. In 1990, he relocated to Florida where he was owner/manager of Kimmel Leasing. David was a member of Believers Faith Fellowship in Eustis, Fla. and formerly a Sunday school teacher at the Tavares Church of God. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association, the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 761, Carlisle, Pa; American Legion Post 109, Mechanicsburg, Pa., of which his grandfather, Howard Bittinger, was a founding member; and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8189, Florida. Above his working accomplishments, David is remembered for his unswerving devotion to his family, beginning with his five brothers and sisters for whom he became a source of great support and comfort after the death of their father in 1975. At the family’s hunting camp in Clinton County or on the family farm in Dillsburg, Dave was most at home when his family was nearby. In later years, he greatly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, the last of which is named for him. When David learned that he was seriously ill, one of the things he longed to have enough time for, besides family, was to tell others about the saving grace of the Lord. Throughout his illness, David endured treatments and symptoms of the disease with courage and dignity, always certain that the Lord was by his side. His steadfast confidence and encouragement to family even as they grieved his prognosis stood as a true testimony to the peace that only God can give to those who call him Savior. David’s quick and warm smile will be missed greatly by those who survive him, who, in addition to his mother, include his loving wife, Sharon Kimmel, Tavares, Fla.; son David, and his wife, Margaret, Eustis, Fla.; daughter Diane Kimmel, Atlanta, Ga.; stepdaughter Monica Ondesko and husband David, Harrisburg, Pa; stepson James Cox, Leesburg, Fla.; brothers Tom Kimmel and wife Vickie, Dillsburg, Pa.; Philip Kimmel, Marysville, Pa.; Mark Kimmel and wife, Carolyn, Dillsburg; and sisters, Linda Strayer and husband Ed,Gardners, Pa.; and Kandy Clark and husband Douglas, Dillsburg. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Following cremation, a celebration service took place at 11 a.m. Sept. 25, 2010 at Mid-Lakes Christian Church, 3701 N. Eichelberger Rd., Tavares, Fla., with Pastor Stephen Storey officiating. Friends came at 10 a.m. for a time of fellowship and visitation. Internment with a military honor guard service took place at 10 a.m. Sept. 27, 2010 at the Florida National Cemetery at Bushnell. The Steverson, Hamlin and Hilbish Funeral Home were in charge of arrangements. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Oct. 2 at the Mt. Pleasant Church of God, 146 S. York Rd., Dillsburg, Pa. , with his son Pastor David Kimmel officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Believers Faith Fellowship, 1320 E. Orange Ave., Eustis, Fla. 32726.
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?