Charles “Chuck” R. Ketzel, 87, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 11, 2024, in Orlando Florida. Chuck was born to John and Clara Ketzel on March 25, 1936 in Piqua, Ohio.
Chuck graduated from Piqua Central High School in 1953 and then continued his education and received a bachelor’s degree from Otterbein University in Ohio. As a proud veteran, Chuck served in both the United States Army and the United States Army Reserves until 1965. In 2020 he retired from Yellow Cab Company (Mears Transportation) in Orlando after 47 years in management.
Chuck was passionate about woodworking and enjoyed making bird houses that he shared with his family and friends. Being competitive, Chuck also loved playing cards and games. Living for adventures, Chuck traveled most of the United States with his wife Darlene. Lasting memories were built with his daughters attending Nascar races and spending time at the beach. Chuck was also an avid fan of the University of Central Florida football team.
Chuck is survived by his loving wife Darlene of 39 years; his 2 daughters Lori (Dave) Guthrie and Julie Burke; his stepson Scott (Geri) Spangler; stepdaughter Cheryl Spangler; 5 grandchildren Stephen (Kristen), Steven, Justin (Amanda), Alex (Pegah), and Aaron; 6 great grandchildren Giuliana, Jackson, Arianna, Bohdi, Kennedy, and Magnolia Rose, Marina. Chuck is also survived by his sister-in-law Debbie (George) Menz; brothers-in-law Russell (Suzi) Pelaquin, and Robert Howe. He also leaves behind extended family Mitra and Trey Faircloth. Chuck was preceded in death by his mother Clara and father John; sisters Alice, Ruth, Shirley and Louise; brother Jackie; son Douglas Ketzel; grandson Brandon Burke and great grandson Stephen ‘Vance’ Ketzel.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 am on March 4, 2024 at the Oasis at Conway Gardens Church at 1900 Conway Gardens Road, Orlando, Florida 32806.
Lunch will be served in the church hall following the service.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation made in Chuck’s memory to the Oasis Conway Garden Church.
This heritage started 67 years ago with Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, who founded the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1934. In 1938 Francis E. Loomis, son of Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, received his license to practice Mortuary Science and in 1941 established Loomis Funeral Home of Winter Garden, FL. 
420 W Main St
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Sandra Seestrom says
I worked with Chuck 20 years ,he was those most patient boss Iv known,easy to laugh n smile never had harsh words for anyone and he loved that darn cat!!
God has you ,you deserve an eternity of peace