Tributes

Henry Ellis Pagel travelled home to Jesus on March 18, 2021 at the age of 92. Born June 16, 1928 in San Antonio to Guy Julius Pagel and Recie Ellis Pagel, Henry was their only child. He is survived by his children Debbie Rettko of Lakehills, Texas; Donna Pennington and husband Daniel of Gulf Breeze, Florida; Dano Pagel of San Antonio; David Pagel and wife Michele of San Antonio; Darren Pagel and wife Rhonda of Saint Hedwig, Texas. He is also survived by his only grandchild, Sara Pagel (daughter of David and Michele). He is preceded in death by his parents and his Son-In-Law Jimmy Rettko. Henry graduated from Harlandale High School in 1946 and then briefly attended San Antonio College. He then found work with Southwestern Bell and on August 9, 1950 he enlisted into the United States Air Force where he became a Senior Communication Machine Repairman as a Corporal. While serving with the 1928th AACS Squadron, he received the Good Conduct Medal on August 20, 1953. After retiring as a Staff Sargent from the Air Force on February 28, 1955, Henry returned home and continued his career with Southwestern Bell while raising his family. He was very active in the YMCA Indian Guides and was a Scout Master in the Boy Scouts of America. Henry officially retired from his career with Southwestern Bell on August 12, 1989 after 42 dedicated, hard-working years. Since then, he enjoyed living his best life with friends and family. His favorite past times were singing Karaoke, dancing, camping, fishing and spending holidays with his family. Henry’s love for singing Karaoke led him to Helotes where he would frequent different bars and restaurants to sing his heart out several times a week. He also loved to travel and would spend months at a time traveling the country pulling his travel trailer. Henry found the hobby of key making in his retirement years and loved it so much, he turned his travel trailer into a locksmith shop. He would take his traveling locksmith shop to his favorite flea market to offer his skilled key making abilities. Henry was a member of the Disable American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Communications Workers of America. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Henry’s honor to Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Meals on Wheels or Wounded Warriors.

Tributes

Henry Ellis Pagel

June 16, 1928 - March 18, 2021