Kenneth Lee Schlegel

Kenneth L. Schlegel, 80, of Richmond Township, passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026 in the Reading Hospital with his loving family by his side. He was the husband of Sharon A. (Rigg) Schlegel. They were married on October 12, 1968, and celebrated fifty-eight years of marriage.

Born in Fleetwood, he was the son of the late Kermit Schlegel and Minnie (Moyer) Schlegel. Born on the family farm, Ken grew up with a strong passion for agriculture. Ken was a 1964 graduate of Kutztown Area High School, transferring to Kutztown for his high school years so he could participate in the FFA program. He became a self-employed dairy farmer in partnership with his father, Kermit, on the same farm he was born on.

Ken lived a life defined by service. The Grange held a special place in Ken's heart. He was a lifetime member and devoted countless years to the organization. Locally, he served as President of Fleetwood Grange for more than 30 years. At the county level, he served in many capacities lastly serving as Legislative Chairperson, helping to write resolutions on behalf of the organization. He also served as an officer of the Pennsylvania State Grange as well as chairperson for the Good of the Order Resolution committee for multiple years.

Ken's love for the Grange was something he shared with his wife, Sharon. Together, they served as Pennsylvania State Grange Youth Directors, encouraging and mentoring young people across the state. Their dedication was recognized in 1980 when Ken and Sharon were named the National Young Couple of the Year in the competition in Spokane, Washington, representing Pennsylvania competing on the national level.

Ken's commitment to service went beyond the Grange. He served his church on the St. Paul's Lutheran Church Council, including serving as President. He served on the Fleetwood Area School District Board, including as President, and gave his time and leadership to, Farm Credit Board and the Kutztown Fair Board. In his later years, he continued to serve his community as Chair of the Richmond Township Planning Commission.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his children: Heather, wife of Scott Mengel; Keith Schlegel, husband of Kristin; Kyle Schlegel, husband of Marci; 10 grandchildren: Jacob Mengel, Joshua Mengel, Kayla Schlegel, Isaac Mengel, Connor Schlegel, Kyleigh Schlegel, Owen Schlegel, Hunter Schlegel, Ava Jenkins, Taylor Schlegel; 3 great-grandchildren: Addalynn, Eli, Calvin. Ken is also survived by two sisters: Diane Epting and Dee Kramer.

Ken was an avid hunter and enjoyed participating in this hobby with his sons both locally and in Sullivan County with the Berks County Hunting Club. Ken thoroughly enjoyed being with his family, and he cherished watching his grandchildren grow and take part in the activities they enjoyed. He also had a special love for Fleetwood High School soccer. He could typically be found on the sidelines, proudly cheering for the team coached by his sons.

Some of Ken's favorite family memories were made during the annual winter butchering time. He took great pride in passing this tradition down to his children and grandchildren. And, of course, no butchering season was complete without making scrapple-a custom Ken especially enjoyed sharing with his family.

Services for Ken will be held on Sunday, September 27 at 3:30 pm at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 117 E. Arch St, Fleetwood. A visitation will be held in the church beginning at 1:30pm. Memorial contributions can be made to the Fleetwood Grange and sent to 15 W. Cedar St, Fleetwood, PA 19522.