Joel Thomas Brigel Sr.

Joel Thomas Brigel Sr., 78, of Reading, PA, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025. Born in Reading on July 21, 1947, Joel lived a life full of purpose, creativity, and deep devotion to his family and friends.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Joel served honorably during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he worked for over 20 years as a dedicated steelworker at Car Tech, where his strong work ethic and loyalty left a lasting impression.

Joel’s interests and passions were as dynamic as his personality. He was a devoted fan of the Reading Royals hockey team, loved many styles of music—especially rock—and was a skillful guitar player. He also expressed his creativity through woodworking and other hands-on crafts. Joel had a lifelong love of motorcycles, enjoyed vacations to the beach, and often played games like darts and pool with friends and family.

Above all, Joel was a family man. He is survived by his loving children: Joel Brigel Jr. and his wife Hilary, Jodi Lyn Daniels and her husband Steven, and Marcy Jo Gieringer and her husband JR. He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren—Cat, Jake, Allison, Cameron, Spencer, and Ben—and three great-grandchildren: Winter, Ocean, and Valley, with two great-granddaughters expected soon. He is also survived by his brother Bob Moyer and sisters MaryEllen Bossler and Sandra Reppert.

Joel was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sara Brigel, and his brother, Bill Brigel.

He was a longtime member of Trinity United Church of Christ and also attended Glad Tidings Church. His faith and community were an important part of his life.

A gathering will be held on Friday, August 8th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Auman's Inc. Funeral Home, located at 390 W Neversink Rd, Reading, PA. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with a committal service to take place at Forest Hills Memorial Park at 2:00 p.m.

Those who knew Joel will remember his outgoing personality, his kind heart, and his favorite saying: “Go big or go home.” He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.