Obituary of Thom Kembel

Kembel, Thom, (75), K7QFZ, Was born to Elmer and Mary Kembel on April 6, 1935 in Ritzville, WA, and entered into rest July 14, 2010 at the age of 75, passing away peacefully at his home in Ritzville where he lived all of his life. He is survived by his wife Charlene of 31 years, and his children Scott Kembel and Steve Kembel (Holli), Genevieve Weatherford, James Weatherford (Judy), Cathy Bell (Wayne), Edith Mulvihill, and Cass Millyard (Jason) and grandchildren Jason Sikorski, Christopher Mulvihill, Whitney (Chris) Justice, Tylor Weatherford, Jolene Millyard, Brooke Kembel, and Thomas Weatherford. Thom was preceded in death by father Elmer Kembel, mother Mary Kembel and brother Ray Kembel. He worked in the fertilizer business for many years and went on to become Foreman of the Warehouse. He served the community of Ritzville in many capacities, including fireman for 27 years (City Fire Chief for 15 of those years), EMT, City Council member and Mayor. He had a passion for metal work and believed that nothing could be over-engineered and he spent many hours in his shop. He was also an avid trap shooter and won the Hanson Trophy. When he was not in his shop you could find Thom and Charlene on their Ham radios or out camping in their motor home. The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the staff of Inland Basin Home Health and Hospice, grandson Christopher, EARH, Sacred Heart Medical Center for the wonderful loving care Thom, and the family, received. Memorial service will be at 11:00 am on Monday, July 19, at the Zion Congregational church in Ritzville Washington. Reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the Zion church. Danekas Funeral Home and Crematory-Ritzville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.danekasfuneralhome.org