Esther A. Markel

Esther A. Markel, 86, of Port Matilda, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Centre Care Nursing Home in Bellefonte. She was born on March 31, 1939, in Pleasant Gap, PA to the late Willis and Mildred (Shay) Markel.

Esther was a graduate of Bellefonte Area High School class of 1957. After graduating Esther worked as a press operator for Commercial Printing for 39 years until her retirement in 2001. She served as former secretary treasurer for Graphic Communication's Union, and she also dedicated many years to the Women of the Moose and was recognized for her service as Senior Regent.

Esther was happiest cheering for Notre Dame and the Eagles, laughing around the campfire with her family, rolling dice during Yahtzee nights and spending Sunday's watching NASCAR. She especially loved watching Darrell Waltrip, Jeff Gordon and Kyle Busch. Esther's family began camping in a tent at the Grange Fair in 1928, and she treasured that tradition throughout her life, faithfully returning each year and passing the experience on to her family. Above all, she cherished her time spent with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved listening to her classic country music, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Tammie Wynette, George Jones and Conway Twitty.

She is survived by her two sons, Willis "Mick" Markel and his wife Debbie of Philipsburg and John Markel and his wife Pam of Bellefonte, four grandchildren, Samantha Campbell and her husband Tyler, Brittany Workman and her husband Josh, Kristan Kite and her husband Jim and Brianne Meek and her husband Heath. Also surviving are 9 great grandchildren, Madyson Workman, Kaydence Campbell, Larissa Workman, Aiden Meek, Autumn Wyland, Jayce Meek, Owen Campbell, Ember Wyland and Lane Campbell and two special nephews, Glenn Hackett Jr. and Charles Hackett.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Mary Hackett, Charles, Donald and Robert Markel and her beloved niece, Penny Brower. She was the last of her generation.

There will be a public viewing held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 5-7PM, at Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. 206 N. Spring Street, Bellefonte. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 11:00am, at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Bellefonte with Father Brian Saylor officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Esther's memory to St. John's Catholic School at 116 E. Bishop Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823. Online condolences may be made to the family at

Online condolences may be made to the family at wetzlerfuneralhome.com