Michael Rasel

Michael H. "Mike" Rasel, 79, of Harrison City (Penn Township), passed away peacefully in his sleep after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, May 1, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1946, the son of the late Dr. Harry and Agnes (Boyle) Rasel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Berklene (Kelly) Rasel; and two brothers, Melvyn and Martin Rasel. Mike was born in Natrona Heights, where he lived with his siblings until the loss of their father to tuberculosis. After relocating with his family, he and his siblings grew up in Irwin, a place he held close to his heart and often spoke of with great fondness, sharing many cherished memories from his childhood there. After marrying the love of his life, Berklene, Mike made his home in Harrison City, where together they built a life centered on love, family, and devotion over 55 wonderful years of marriage while raising their three sons. He was deeply involved in the local Scout troop at Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin, where he proudly served as Scoutmaster for well over a decade, a role that brought him immense joy and allowed him to positively impact countless young lives. Mike worked hard throughout his life and took pride in every role he held, including positions at Westinghouse Air Brake, the Electrical Union, and later as a custodian for the Penn-Trafford School District. To generations of students, he was lovingly known as "Mr. Mike," and his kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Mike was a humble, selfless, and deeply giving man who always put others before himself. He never met a stranger only friends he hadn't yet made and he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He is survived by his three sons, Kevin (Kellie) Rasel, David (Kathleen) Rasel, and Michael R. Rasel; his two grandsons, Chaise and Forrest Rasel; his sister, Maureen (Tom) Clemmons; and his sisters-in-law, PJ and Darlene Rasel. He is also survived by his close and dear friend, Patty Fenton, lovingly known as "Aunt Patty," who has been a true angel to the Rasel family. Her constant love, generosity, and unwavering support have meant more than words can express, and the family will be forever grateful for her presence in their lives. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at LINDSAY-JOBE FUNERAL HOME INC., 3343 Route 130, PO Box 465, Harrison City. Parting prayers will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 308 Second St., Irwin, PA 15642. Interment will follow at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park, Irwin.