After a brief illness, Harold (Hal) Nelson Kehl, Jr. passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home.

Born in Mentor, OH, Hal graduated from Mentor High School and earned his bachelor's degree in education from Ohio University. After a short but impactful teaching career, he learned the plumbing trade and spent the majority of his adult life providing plumbing services through Brunswick Plumbing and Heating, and later, Cleveland Plumbing Supply, where he worked for 25 years until his illness required him to retire.

A lifelong learner, Hal could often be seen with a book in hand. He learned sign language, which he practiced with his family and used regularly in both his work and personal life to communicate with those who were hearing impaired. Hal was also a dedicated coach for youth sports, not only mentoring his own children but also countless others in youth football, softball, baseball, and soccer. More than just an instructor, Coach Hal took a personal interest in each player, caring about their lives, families, education, and overall well-being.

Hal was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Kathleen Kehl (Minthorn), his mother Evelyn Kehl, and brother, Robert Kehl. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mary Kaye Kehl (Swingle) and, together, they raised a combined family of six children: Jim Swingle (Connie), Jeff (Linda), Laurie Colbert (Brian), Ellen Walter (Ben), Jenifer Forsythe (Danny) and Andrew "Bubba" (Heather), while being a devoted "Papa" to 16 grandchildren (Triston, Jack, Lexi, Braden, Cade, Anthony, Bennett, Andi, Daniel, Dylan, Zachary, Noah, Molly, Hannah, Jason and Sophi) and 2 great-grandchildren ( McClain and Amelia).

There will be a brief service at the Brunswick United Methodist Church at 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick, OH 44212 on February 8th, 2025 at 10:00am with visitation starting at 9:00am.  Later, as the weather warms, the family will host a poolside "celebration of life" to honor Hal with friends and family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to [https://www.handsonsportsfoundation.org/donate/] in his memory.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Cleveland Plumbing Supply, the medical and hospice caregivers, and all of the friends and family who provided support during this challenging time.

Hal made a lasting impact on so many lives. He will be deeply missed, but his positive influence will be felt for generations to come.