Gary L. Rishel

Gary L. Rishel, 71, of Lock Haven passed away Monday, December 15, 2025 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.Born November 22, 1954 in Lock Haven, he was a son of the late William and Shirley (Hevner) Rishel.Gary was a 1972 graduate of Lock Haven High School.He worked at Jersey Shore Steel, holding various positions before retiring after 40 years of employment.On August 2, 2009, he married the former Ellen M. Swartwood, with whom he shared 16 years of marriage.Gary was a member of Castanea United Methodist Church and later Flemington United Methodist Church.In his younger days he enjoyed camping and traveling.Gary was an active man, never sitting still. He could often be found working with his hands and building.Most of all, he was a family man.In addition to his wife, Ellen Rishel of Lock Haven, he is survived by his children: Jason (Ann) Rishel of Philipsburg, Nicole Rauch of Jersey Shore, Justin (Amber) Rishel of Beech Creek and John (Francesca) Rishel of Lock Haven; a niece, Meredith Murren of Virginia; 12 grandchildren: William (Jocelyn), Paige, Zachary (Jessica), Elijah, Joshua, Cambria, Everia, Jace, Delia, Rylan, Jonah and Raven; and a great granddaughter, Harleen.Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Gerry Rishel; a brother, Dennis Rishel; and two grandsons, Patrick Rishel and Jacob Rauch.A funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 3PM at Donald G. Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High St., Flemington with Pastor Rick Conklin officiating. Friends and family will be received at the funeral home on Sunday from 2PM until the time of the service.Memorial contributions in Gary's name may be made to Flemington United Methodist Church through the funeral home.Online condolences may be given by visiting www.donaldwalkerfuneralhome.com

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