Born January 6, 1937, in Mansfield, Ohio, he was the son of the late Paul and Ruby (Dunn) Kunkel. After graduation, he joined the US Army. Harold was a true entrepreneur and visionary, starting multiple businesses in the Mansfield area, including three gas stations and most recently was the owner of Kunkel’s Auto and Marine. Harold was a pioneer in the high-performance boating industry, involved in many aspects from paint design to innovative, cutting-edge technology and assisted businesses far beyond this area. His love for speed was legendary, and, in his younger years, he enjoyed drag racing. Throughout his life he also enjoyed snowmobiling and boating. An avid car enthusiast, he went to car auctions often looking for that perfect vehicle to add to his collection. Harold was an amazing father to his two children and the memories they created will be forever treasured.
Harold is survived by a daughter, Karla Cummings; son, Jason Kunkel; two grandchildren, Brandon Kunkel, and Taylor Kunkel; three great-grandchildren, Tatum Cochenour, Reign Cochenour and Dawson Kunkel; a brother, Dean Kunkel; a niece, Andrea Wilson; and a great-nephew, Bradley Wilson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores A. McGregor Kunkel, and sister-in-law, Linda Kunkel.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1:00-3:00 pm at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. A memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 pm. Contributions in memory of Harold may be made to the Morrow County Dog Shelter, 80 North Walnut Suite A, Mount Gilead, OH 43338.
