John George Gunkel III, staunch patriot

Mr. John George Gunkel III, 95, of Rehoboth Beach, formerly of Westview Park, Catonsville, Md., passed away Thursday, April 22, 2021, at Cadia Healthcare Renaissance in Millsboro. 

John was born in Baltimore, Md., to the late Elmer and Edna Gunkel March 19, 1926.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife Marian H. Gunkel in 2015.   

He retired from Baltimore City Fire Department as acting lieutenant after 31 years of service.  He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Catonsville, a member of Masonic Lodge in Catonsville and was also a U.S. Navy veteran serving on USS Bryce Canyon during WWII and the Korean War era.  He received the American Theater Ribbon and the Victory Medal.  In his free time, he enjoyed reading, gardening, playing cards and duckpin bowling.  John was known to be honest, dependable, loving, caring, a good friend, and a dedicated and staunch patriot.  He knew how to hold his ground and make a stand when necessary. He adored his daughters and will be dearly missed.

He is survived by three daughters, Kate Kane of Elverson, Pa., Robin Camponeschi (Gary) of Perry Hall, Md., and Melanie T. Gunkel of Rehoboth Beach.  He also leaves behind a sister, Delores Palmer (Fred) of Bear; special friends Charles “Buck” Hicks and Jack Ward; as well as four grandchildren, Jason Brooks, John Kane Jr., Rebecca Kane and Laura Kane; and 10 great-grandchildren, five great-grandsons and five great-granddaughters.  He loved his 11 dogs and cats.  Nine have preceded; Geordy and Kodiak survive him.

Services are to be announced.

Arrangements provided by Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro.

Letters of condolence may be emailed via www.watsonfh.com