James W. Reil, 83, of Margate, FL, formerly of Drums, PA, kind and beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and husband, passed away peacefully Monday, April 1, at Vitas Hospice Center, Florida.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Nicole, Margate, Florida; sons James P. Reil and his wife Michelle, Texas, and Michael Reil, Maryland; daughters Julie Edstrom, Florida, and Maria Whitley, Hazleton; grandchildren Jodi Gallagher, Matthew and Kevin Edstrom, Josh Reil, Michael and Casey Reil, and Summer Whitley; and great-grandchildren Billy and Kendall Gallagher and Cora Edstrom; as well as his step-brother Richard Apple, and several nieces and nephews.
Born in Albany, James studied at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. He was employed for 30 years by Vibra-Tech Engineers, Inc, Hazleton, and retired as president of the company in 1995.
James lived in Albany, DuBois, and Conyngham, before settling in Drums, PA with his family, where he lived for nearly 50 years. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Patricia (Niedbala) Reil, sisters Mary Halloran and Julia Reil, brothers Walter Reil and Michael Reil, and step brother Clifford Apple.
James served in the US Army in the 32nd Battalion of the American Third Armored Division in West Germany, company C, Scout Platoon, from 1958-1960 as a specialist 4th class. He was pleased and proud to have served alongside Elvis Presley, and in 2013 was part of a special celebration at Graceland for the men who served with Elvis.
James was a member of Good Shepherd Church in Drums, and Word Family Church in Harwood, and, more recently, Calvary Chapel in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. James was known for his wisdom, as well as his kindness and willingness to help others in need. He volunteered throughout his life, including several years ministering to prisoners in an outreach program.
Private services are being arranged at the convenience of the family. An open house for family and friends to call will be held from 12-2 pm at 1630 Dons Avenue, Hazleton, on Saturday, April 27.
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