George F. Reichel

GEORGE F. REICHEL

George F. Reichel, born January 26, 1923, died peacefully in his sleep on August 9, 2019, at 11:03 a.m.  George was from the "greatest generation" and served in World War II.  He fought in many battles, including the Battle of the Bulge, where he was wounded by a German rocket on December 29, 1944.  After spending a month in a French hospital, he requested to go back to the front lines so he could help his squad continue to fight.  He is a recipient of many medals, including the Purple Heart.  George returned from the war to start a family with his wife, RoseMarie and to build his own house.  They had three children, Patty, Georgann and Charles.

George had been a mechanic his whole life and also went on to open his own garage.  George also joined the Pittsburgh Fire Department and served for 23 years, achieving the rank of Captain, always a leader.  George continued to work as an auto mechanic when not on duty as a fireman, and even into retirement.  George had a true gift for making people laugh, and had many lifelong friends.  He continued friendships with all his war buddies, including Earl Brown, who fought through many battles with George.

George is survived by his daughter, Georgann Reichel; his son Charles Reichel; his grandchild, Kimberly Reichel, of whom he was so proud when she achieved her Ph.D. in physics (his nickname for her was "Mighty-Mite"); his daughter-in-law, Robin Reichel; his nieces Beth, Mary and Ellen Reichel; his nephew Peter (wife, Lana)  Reichel; his great-nephew Jason (wife, Erin) Reichel and their son, Jackson.

He made peace with God, accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, knowing he had forgiveness of sin.  He will be truly missed by his friends and family, but his legacy of love, caring and humor will continue to live on.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, August 16, from 3 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Frank F. DeBor Funeral Home.  A Celebration of Life service will begin Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.

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