Apr 17, 2022

John Paul “Jack” Vensel, 86, of West Alexander, passed peacefully in his sleep, after a lifetime of loving, supporting, and helping others.

Jack was born in Wheeling, W.Va., May 4, 1935, a son of the late Earl Thomas and Sara Elizabeth Foster Vensel.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving as a corpsman during the Korean War, and as West Alexander Postmaster for 33 years. During retirement, he owned and operated Cruisetime Travel Services, and volunteered at First Love Christian Academy (Washington, Pa.) and the McGuffey Community Bible Program for many years.

Jack was very involved in his community, serving on the West Alexander Municipal Water Authority and spearheading several neighborhood development projects.

He was also a mentor to many during his life and a proud member of the Vineyard Church of Wheeling, W.Va.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Lee Anderson Vensel; and his brothers, Earl William Vensel and Edwin David Vensel.

Jack is survived by his five children, Pam (Bob) McPherson, Bernie Vensel, Brian (Christina) Vensel, Kathleen (Carl) Miller, John Paul (Stacy Reid) Vensel II; the mother of his children, Joy Vensel of Washington; his three stepchildren, Gregory Kemp, Steven Kemp, Billy (Jodel) Kemp; his sister, Sarah “Sally” Malesic; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, in the West Alexander United Presbyterian Church.

A prayer service will be officiated by the West Alexander Legion Post 656 at 7 p.m. during the evening visitation. Jack was a member of the Legion for 47 years.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, at the church.

The Legion will hold a final burial service at the West Alexander Cemetery after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the West Alexander Area Community of Services (WAACOS).

A reception for friends and family will be held at the Legion after the burial service.