Beloved Community Member Honored for Contributions to Lutheran Education

A serene garden representing the spirit of community and education.

News Summary

The community mourns the loss of Glen Howard Kokel, a passionate advocate for Lutheran education, who dedicated his life to teaching and supporting local families. Known for his warm spirit, Kokel impacted many lives through his work in education and food service. His legacy continues through his family’s commitment to education and community service, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting influence.

Georgetown, Texas – Glen Howard Kokel, a dedicated advocate for Lutheran education and beloved community member, passed away on June 3, 2025, at the age of 78. His contributions to the field of education and the local community have left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.

Kokel was born on October 16, 1946, in Georgetown, Texas, to Victor and Leona Kokel. He spent his childhood on the family farm in Jarrell, where he was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg. His educational journey began at Concordia Lutheran High School in Austin, Texas, at the age of 13, and he later graduated from Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, in 1968.

Shortly after completing his degree, Kokel began his career in education at a Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod school in Houston, Texas. In 1971, he married Joyce Timm, who hailed from St. Louis, Missouri. After three years in the classroom, he transitioned to the food service industry, where he spent over 50 years. In this field, Kokel built a reputation as an expert food broker and enjoyed considerable success, ultimately retiring in 2022.

Kokel and his wife Joyce raised three children: Kristen (Wes) Brannon, Zachery (Jennifer) Kokel, and Stefani (Josh) Hobratsch, who brought them immense joy. The couple also cherished their six grandchildren: Kaitlyn Brannon, Riley Kokel, Bethany Kokel, Joshua Brannon, Ethan Hobratsch, and Grace Hobratsch.

Upon retirement, Glen and Joyce moved back to Jarrell, Texas, where they became active members of Zion Walburg. In this phase of life, Kokel indulged in his passion for gardening, working on his windmill, and attending food shows. His interests included frying fish, cooking steaks, hunting, and fishing, with a particular fondness for stocking his ponds with catfish for his grandchildren to enjoy.

Kokel was known for his warm demeanor, distinctive handshake, and his encouraging catchphrase, “Keep Smiling.” He is remembered fondly by family and friends for his positive spirit and commitment to his loved ones. Glen Kokel was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Leona Kokel, but is survived by his wife Joyce, their children, grandchildren, and his three siblings: Milton (Sylvia) Kokel, Larry (Dorothy) Kokel, and Dale (Laddie) Martinka.

A visitation was held on June 6, 2025, at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown. The following day, a funeral service took place at Zion Lutheran Church, followed by interment and fellowship in the church’s gymnasium. In honor of his legacy, memorial contributions are welcomed for the Learning Legacy Endowment of Zion Lutheran School, with the aim of supporting future generations of Lutheran education.

Glen Kokel’s life was marked by dedication to his family, community, and the values he cherished. His commitment to education and his unwavering support for his loved ones will continue to inspire all who knew him.