Philip Daniel Kimmel

Philip Daniel Kimmel, 64, of Dillsburg, PA, passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2025 from a heart attack —no doubt off to a place where the fish are always biting, the music’s always playing, and the race is always on.

   Born on July 26, 1960, at Seidle Memorial Hospital to the late David E. Kimmel, Sr. and Isabelle B. Kimmel, Phil was a lifelong Dillsburg guy—loyal to his roots, his stories, and his small-town way of life. He served in the U.S. Army with honor, followed by a blue-collar career that included years at Quality Greenhouse as a laborer, and stints in landscaping, excavating, and mechanic work. If the job involved sweat and dirt, Phil was all in.

   Known to his family and friends as “Pip,” he wasn’t flashy, but he had a big personality and an even bigger heart. He never met a stranger, loved a good laugh, and could spin a story like no one else—usually loud and completely unforgettable. A true fan of racing and life alike, Pip could recount any memory, race, or event with surprising accuracy — whether it was the details of a previous hunting season or a decades-old race. His vivid recall was part charm, part legend.

   Phil loved the simple pleasures: strumming his guitar or playing the harmonica, hunting in the woods, fishing in his favorite hole, jamming to classic rock, and cheering on a race. He also enjoyed worshiping at South Fairview Church of God in Newville, PA.

   He is survived by his children, Audrey and Van Kimmel; his grandson, Barrett Deal; and his siblings: Linda Strayer, Tom Kimmel, Kandy Clark and Mark Kimmel. He was preceded in death by his brother, David Kimmel, Jr. Phil also shared many chapters of his life with Karen Arnett. Together, they cared for a motley crew of animals.

   A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Monday, June 16 at Mt. Pleasant Church of God – 146 S. York Road, Dillsburg, PA. A viewing will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, followed by a service at 3:00 PM and a luncheon to follow. In true Phil fashion, there’s no need for formality—come comfortable, come casual, camo and boots welcome.

   In lieu of flowers, donations in Phil’s memory may be made to the Western Clinton Sportsmen Association (WCSA) at PO Box 1, Renovo, PA 17764. Or just tell a story, laugh loudly, and spend time with someone you love.

   Burial with military honors is tentatively scheduled at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA – more details to follow.