Kenny Wetzel

Charles Kenneth 'Kenny' Wetzel, 78, of Emmitsburg, died on Monday, June 25 at Gettysburg Hospital. Born February 4, 1939 in Emmitsburg, he was the son of the late Charles R. and Elizabeth (Eyler) Wetzel.

Kenny was a life-long resident of Emmitsburg. He worked during his younger years at Freeman Shoe Factory in Emmitsburg until it closed. He then worked in security at the National Fire Academy before becoming a custodian at the Visitors Center along Rt. 15 until it closed. Kenny enjoyed life on the family homestead raising all kinds of pets and other animals. He used to hitch up his horse and buggy and go for rides with his dogs. He was a regular customer at Paul's Pit Stop where he was always looking to score a big win from lottery scratch off tickets. He had an endless repertoire of stories and jokes (some pretty off-color) that kept people laughing.

Surviving are brothers, Edward Wetzel and wife Patsy of Emmitsburg, and John 'Jake' Wetzel and wife Mary Lou of Rouzerville; sisters, Shirley Moser and husband Charlie, and Linda Humerick and husband Sonny, all of Emmitsburg; sisters-in-law, Martha and Nancy Wetzel, both of Emmitsburg; and numerous nieces and nephews. Kenny was predeceased by brothers, Russell Wetzel and his son Rusty, Robert 'June' Wetzel, Ronnie Wetzel, his wife Darlene and their daughter Michelle; sisters, Ruth Andrew and her husband Dan, Betty Miller and her husband Buster, and Mary Frances Diehl and her husband Harry.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at The Gardens of Gettysburg Nursing Home for the patience and care they provided. Special thanks also go out to niece Pam Kaas who provided daily love and support; sister and brother-in-law Linda and Sonny Humerick for helping Kenny around the house; brother Jake for weekly visits; nephew Tim for seeing that the property was cared for and plenty of wood was available; and niece Melissa for taking care of all of Kenny's financial matters.

A private graveside service was June 29th at Emmitsburg Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Kenny's name may be made to Emmitsburg Osteopathic Primary Care Center, P.O. Box 291, Emmitsburg, 21727. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.myersdurborawfh.com.