John Markel

John E. Markel, 94, of Reading, passed away, Monday, February 1st, 2016 in Manor Care Sinking Spring . He was the widower of Mabel E. (Hill) Markel who passed away April 28, 1997. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late Harry and Hazel (Guitar) Markel. John was a Graduate of Reading High School and a member of the United States Coast Guard. Golf was always a way of life for John, even up until his passing. Growing up, John and his family had lived on the course at the Berkshire Country Club where his father was head professional. He became immersed in the sport and quickly developed into a spectacular junior golfer. He began winning tournaments at the young age of 13. Included in his many victories were three consecutive PIAA State High School Championships, a feat never equaled even by fellow Pennsylvanians Arnold Palmer and Jay Sigel. John is a four-time Berks County Junior Champion, and seven time Amateur Champion, first earning the distinction in 1938 at the age of 16. In 1964 John pursued the golf profession, by joining the Berkshire Country Club as an assistant to his father. He later assumed the head professional role upon his father's retirement in 1968. John carried his golf success into the professional circuit, winning the Philadelphia Section of the PGA's Assistant Championship and the Philadelphia PGA Senior Championship in 1983, to name a few. Over a six decade career, he captured 117 amateur and professional tournaments. John was a lifelong honorary member of the Berkshire Country Club. He was proud to have tied the course record of 64 at the age of 72 in 1994. Another passion in his life was playing golf with his grand daughter. He was also inducted into the Reading High School Hall of Fame and the Berks County Hall of Fame. John is survived by one daughter Jan M. Johnson, one grand daughter Jill N. Branford and one great grand-daughter Jazmin Branford all of Sinking Spring. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Interment in Forest Hills Memorial Park Exeter Township. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. Mount Penn is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com