Willam Edward "Bill" Zinkel William Edward (Bill) Zinkel, loving father, husband and friend, died at peace with the Lord, surrounded by his family on Friday, November 21, 2014.

He was a pillar of his local community and tireless promoter of educational enrichment and character of development programs for young people.

Born on Christmas, 1947, in Newark, NJ, he was the son of Edward and Yulan (nee Fabian) Zinkel and grandson of 33rd degree Mason, William F. Zinkel, of Philadelphia, PA. 

He is survived by Marcia, his beloved wife of 45 years, son David of Lancaster, Pa, son Martin of Philadelphia, Pa, and daughter Julianna Disbrow, of Narberth, Pa; along with his 4 grandchildren.

He arrived at the Masonic Home for children, in Elizabethtown, Pa at age 11 and graduated from Elizabethtown High School in 1966, leading their football team to the All-County Championships.

He attended West Chester University on a football scholarship, winning several conference championships, graduating with a degree in Education in 1970.

In 1972, he became a Representative for the Boy Scouts of America, Chester County Council, continuing to promote scouting as advisor and sponsor of Glenmoore Troop 79 for the rest of his life.

After many years in Correctional Education, he became Director of Education for SCI Graterford, where he helped hope, opportunity, and a second chance of life through many avenues including an innovative college and advanced degree program developed in partnership with Villanova University.

As a member of Mt. Pickering Lodge #446 of Free and Accepted Masons, he was Representative to the Pennsylvania Youth Foundation, creating the Elementary and Middle School Citizenship Award program, and founding the Preceptor chapter of the DeMolay Masonic youth program.

He was a steadfast member of Glenmoore United Methodist Church, where he found greatest comfort, friendship and community, helping to guide and support the church as a Trustee since 1974.

A funeral service will be held at 11AM, on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at the Glenmoore United Methodist Church, 1920 Creek Rd., Glenmoore, Pa, with Pastor Ralph Cain officiating. Interment with a Masonic Service at the adjacent cemetery.  Friends may call at 10AM at the church on Saturday.
Arrangements by The Labs Funeral Home, Inc. of Honey Brook

For additional information and online condolences, please visit www.thelabsfh.com

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I only remember Bill from high school, but I recall him as more mature than most of us at that age. We both threw javelin for the track team and were together only in a mechanical drawing class. It's good to see that Bill had such a full and giving life. My condolences to your family.

~ Bob Greiner Laurel, MD
12/8/2014 3:30:56 PM

I was very sadden to hear about Bill's passing. I was his Deputy Superintendent at SCI-Graterford. He was a strong advocate for educational programs. More importantly, he was a dedicated husband and father and spoke with love and pride about his family and grand children. He will be missed.

~ Scott Williamson New Cumberland, PA
12/2/2014 11:39:32 AM

To Bill zinkel"s family: I knew Bill, when we at the Homes, I am sorry for your loss, my deepest sympathy msweigart

~ mary Rimel Sweigart Parkesburg, Pa
11/30/2014 1:44:42 PM

Marcia and children - I am so sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed talking to Bill and I will miss him when I come up to the church. He was such a friendly person and always made you feel welcome. Gods Bless You All! Sandy

~ Sandy Brannan Glenmoore, PA
11/30/2014 9:38:45 AM

This is such sad news. Bill was a wonderful guy. I feel so lucky that he was part of my Foreman Road extended family.

~ Phil Stouffer
11/30/2014 7:22:09 AM

To my sister, Yulan Thomas. Please accept my condolences in the loss of your brother. I am praying for you and your family.

~ Pauline Lauderdale Arlington, TX
11/27/2014 1:51:35 PM

No words can express the gifts of love which Bill gave the world. His life has made others more full. Marcia and family, our thoughts and deepest feelings are with you.

~ larry stouffer dahlonega, ga
11/27/2014 8:34:43 AM

Marcia, As a childhood friend, I am so sorry for your loss. May our Good Lord grant you peace and comfort thru these difficult times. You are in my prayers. Joyce

~ Joyce Heisey Schroeder Palmyra, PA
11/26/2014 7:13:35 PM

To Marcia and family: You have our most sincere sympathy upon the loss of your beloved husband. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and your family always! Brenda Brubaker Herr

~ Brenda Brubaker Herr Elizabethtown, PA
11/26/2014 1:55:29 PM

Bill Zinkel was a wonderful human being. With the inadequacy of words I would like to say he had a profound presence, a compassionate attitude, and a clever sense of humor. His passing is a loss for many.

~ Greg Hoover Elizabethtown, PA
11/26/2014 7:18:17 AM

Marcia and family, So sorry to hear about Bill! I remember like it was yesterday playing football at E-town, and winning the championship! What I remember most is his kindness and encouragement to...everyone! He's a guy I really wish I'd kept up with over these years...! Marcia, remember at this difficult time that God will never forsake you or leave you, He is the source of growing and total peace and comfort for you and your family! My wife Penny and I will continue to pray for you all!

~ Ron Reed Myrtle Beach,
11/26/2014 1:11:23 AM

Marty, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family. Max

~ Max Stein
11/25/2014 3:22:16 PM

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