Donald J. Ransel

Donald J. Ransel, 82, of Indian Mountain Lakes, Albrightsville, Penn Forest Township, Carbon County, PA, formerly of Fireline Road, Palmerton, died peacefully early Thursday afternoon, October 1, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospital, Carbon Campus, Lehighton. He was the husband of Dixie L. (Ridall) Killian-Ransel since April 30, 2018 and previously the late Judith C. (Wyar) Ransel who passed in 2011. Born in Latrobe, Westmoreland County, he was a son of the late James B., Sr. and Dorothy A. (Thomas) Ransel.

Donald was a career Navy Veteran, serving over 27 years as a Submariner, Cold War, Bay of Pigs Conflict Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam, Grenada, and Panama. He achieved rank of Senior Chief Machinist's Mate, MMCS (SS). After serving, he then worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, White Haven State Hospital as a master boiler/furnace operator. He attended Our Lady Queen of Peace RC Church, Brodheadsville. Donald enjoyed woodworking, contributing to children and animal shelters. He was a graduate of the Latrobe High School.

Survivors: Wife. Daughters, April D. wife of Les Reppert, Jr., of Palmerton, Bonnie L. Killian, and Ronda E. Killian, both of Shickshinny, Luzerne County. sons, Kevin J. Ransel of Palmerton, Allen D. and wife Pamela Killian, Matthew P. and wife Lorie Killian, all of Shickshinny. 12 grandchildren. 15 great grandchildren. 1 great-great granddaughter. Several cousins. He was predeceased by sons, Christopher E. Ransel in 2025, Roland E. Killian, a daughter, Roselie Killian, a granddaughter, a great granddaughter, sister, Barbara A. Gale, PhD, and his brother, James B. Ransel, Jr.

Services: Future Graveside Services with Military Honors, Interment, Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Arrangements, Campton Funeral Home, Palmerton. Online Condolences may be left for his family at: www.schislerfuneralhomes.com

Contributions: May be made in his memory to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.