Frank J. Karpiel Sr.

Frank J. Karpiel, Sr. age 86, of Springfield, PA and a tailor of almost 50 years, died on Oct. 8, 2006, of complications from a stroke at Little Flower Manor.

Mr. Karpiel dropped out of school after his parents died to help support his six younger sisters. He went to work for Kent Mill Co., a manufacturer of men’s suits in Clifton Heights. During WWII, he served in the Army Air Corps at bases in England, repairing and rigging parachutes for B-17 and B24 bombers.

After his discharge, he returned to Kent Mill and eventually became a tailor in the company’s retail store. His customers included 76ers and Eagles players, his son, Frank Jr. said, and former Eagles coach, Dick Vermeil. He was a fan of the Eagles and of Phillies baseball. He retired in 1984 and then worked as a freelance tailor for several years.

Sincer 1954, Mr. Karpiel had been married to Elizabeth Bilotti Karpiel, whom he had met at a dance. He enjoyed tending his large vegetable garden and traveling, especially to Hawaii.

In addition to his son and wife, Mr. Karpiel is survived by a daughter, Elaine Bene and 2 grandchildren.

Visitation Information

Date: Thursday, October 12, 2006

Holy Cross Church

Address:

Bishop and Springfield Roads Springfield, PA 19064  

Service Information

D’Anjolell Memorial Home of Broomall

Address:

2811 West Chester Pike Broomall, PA 19008  

610-356-4200

Date: Thursday, October 12, 2006

Holy Cross Church

Address:

Bishop and Springfield Roads Springfield, PA 19064  

Cemetery Information

Date: Thursday, October 12, 2006

Sts. Peter & Paul

Address:

1600 S. Sproul Road Springfield, PA 19064