Mr. Howard M. Bentel, 79

Mr. Howard M. Bentel, 79, of North Sewickley Township passed away on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022 at his residence.

Howard was born on May 15th, 1942 in Ellwood City to the late Howard J. and Elois (Hoover) Bentel. He is a member of the Lincoln High School class of 1961. Howard enlisted with the United States Air Force on January 18th, 1962 and served until his discharge on January 17th, 1968. He was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.  Howard worked at the Babcock & Wilcox Steel Mill until it closed, and as a mechanic for Bobby Carol’s Garage in Franklin Twp.. He also was the owner and operator of Bentel’s Beach Picnic and Campground which was a popular place for people to gather from close and far along the Connoquenessing Creek. Howard was a member of the VFW and was active with the annual Portersville Steam Show.

He is survived by his significant other, Janet Jarrett, daughter, Jodi (Jody) Lewis of Wayne Twp., son, John Bentel of North Sewickley Twp., grandchildren, Scott Lewis, Ryan Lewis, Braden Bentel, Shayla (Kaden) Fernandez, and Chelsea Bentel, great-grandchildren, Olivia Fernandez and Noland Lewis , and sister, Karen Hickman of Beaver Falls.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Richie E. Bentel in 2010, and brother-in-law, Bill Hickman.

Following Howard’s wishes the will not be a public service. Final arrangements are entrusted to the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc..

Memorial contributions in Mr. Bentel’s name may be made to the St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital.