James M. Mengel, 96, of Reading, departed this life on Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, after a brief illness against which he put up a valiant fight.
Jim was born July 4, 1921, in Elverson and moved to Reading following his discharge from the Army in March, 1946, having served with the 406th Infantry Regiment, Company G, during WWII. He was retired from Berks Title Co., Reading.
Jim is survived by a nephew, Michael R. Mengel of Birdsboro, and a niece, Cheryl Debro of Mount Pocono. Also surviving are his grand-nephew, Samuel M. Mengel of Birdsboro; his grand-niece, Michaela R. Glover of Conway, Ark.; his cousin, Janet Miller of Birdsboro; and two great-grandnieces. He also is survived by life-long friends Nancy March, Laura Mae Babb and Joelyn and Gene Stefani, all of Freehold, N.J., who loved and cherished him for the shining light that he was. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Matthias S. and Elizabeth Mengel; brothers John C. Mengel and Levi R. Mengel; half-sisters Clara Kelly and Madeline Eisenbrown; and a great-nephew, Tyler J. Mengel.
As was his request, Jim will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery with his brother Levi, who died in April. Jim will be dearly missed.