Austin Gunnell

Austin “Fred” Gunnell, III, 56, of Harrisonville, PA, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday afternoon, July 5, 2013 at his home. Born March 5, 1957 in Washington, DC, he was a son of the late Austin F., II and Grace J. Hall Gunnell. Fred was a graduate of the Wheaton High School, Wheaton, MD and served a four year apprenticeship with Sheet Metal Local 100 in Washington, DC. Following his employment with the Sheet Metal Union, Fred began crafting at his home and has been a self-employed blacksmith for 30 years. During that time he has been recognized for his many artistic abilities and his work is displayed throughout the United States. He owned and operated Antietam Iron Works and Powder Coating and enjoyed spending the past several years working alongside his sons. Jesus Christ and family were the center of Fred’s world. His greatest desire was to leave a footprint for Jesus and was a constant witness for his Lord and Savior. He attended World Harvest Outreach in Chambersburg and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren to whom he was known as “Pap Pap”. His hobbies included hunting, beekeeping, gardening, and restoring his 1950 Chevy pickup truck.

Fred is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Perry Gunnell, whom he married June 20, 1981; three children, James A. Gunnell and wife Danelle of McConnellsburg, Daniel A. Gunnell and wife Lindsey of McConnellsburg, and Regan E. Rafetto and husband Christian of Beaver Falls, PA; and grandchildren Israel, Brooke, and one expected in November. He is also survived by two sisters, Audrey Gunnell-Lohr and husband Reid of Lovettsville, VA, and Toni McWaters and husband David of Leesburg, VA; brother-in-law James E. Perry, Jr. of Chambersburg; sister and brother-in-law Mary and Eric Englehart of Powell, OH; his mother-in-law, Grace E. Perry of Harrisonville; and several nieces and nephews.. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ethan S. Gunnell on October 19, 2007.

Funeral services will be held at 7:00 PM Monday, July 8, 2013 at World Harvest Outreach, 1090 Wayne Avenue, Chambersburg, PA with Rev. Carl McKee officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service. Interment will be at 9:00 AM Tuesday, July 9, 2013 at Stenger Hill Cemetery, Ft. Loudon, PA.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cumberland Valley Christian School, 600 Miller Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201.