June 2, 1930 - August 11, 2025

August Joseph ''Doc'' Unkel, 95, of Peel, Arkansas passed away peacefully at his home on August 11, 2025. Born in Rock Island, Illinois on June 2, 1930 to Genevieve Henrietta Bermel and Henry Joseph Unkel, he lived a life of service, sacrifice and steadfast devotion to both family and country.

From an early age, he possessed a deep sense of duty. That calling led him to serve four years in the U.S. Navy, stationed at the Naval Training Station in Great Lakes, Illinois before continuing his service in the U.S. Army. His military career spanned across Vietnam where he served two tours the Philippines and Korea. He was a paratrooper, a fearless leader and a highly decorated soldier, earning multiple Purple Hearts, the Silver Star and the Bronze Star, among numerous other medals and letters of commendation. Always generous, he gifted some of his Bronze Stars to his grandson, Robert, a gesture that spoke volumes about the pride he took in his family and his desire to pass on his legacy.

He was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the American Legion. His dedication to the military community reflected a lifelong commitment to supporting and uplifting fellow servicemen and women.

After his years in uniform, he continued serving others in a different way through a career in nursing. Armed with a bachelor's degree and the compassion of a true healer, he worked as a Registered Nurse, caring for patients with the same diligence and loyalty he had shown on the battlefield. His generosity knew no bounds; he was the kind of man who would go out of his way to help someone, often making personal sacrifices in the process.

In 2015, he settled in Peel, Arkansas after moving from Clarksville, Tennessee. He was a member of Hilldale Baptist Church in Tennessee and later St. Andrews in Arkansas, finding fellowship and spiritual strength in both communities.

Those who knew him best saw beyond his sometimes gruff, ''tough guy'' exterior. At his core, he was a soft-hearted man who loved deeply and without reservation. He doted on his daughter, Mary, spoiled her every chance he could and held high expectations for his sons out of a desire to see them live to their fullest potential. He cherished his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, taking pride in watching his family grow. He also had a great love for animals and a green thumb, tending to gardens and plants with care and patience, a reflection of his nurturing spirit.

He is survived by his children, Mike Unkel, Charles Unkel, David Unkel, John Unkel and Mary Treat (Mike); sisters, Deloris Willson and Mary Sour; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren and many loving friends and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Henry and George; sisters, Hellen and Annie; his beloved wife, Marie and Ruth, the mother of his children.

His life was one of courage, service and unwavering love for his family. He will be laid to rest with full honors on September 27, 2025 at Hopkinsville Veterans Cemetery in Kentucky, joining fellow heroes who served their nation with pride.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any local VFW or DAV chapter in his honor.

He will be remembered not only as a brave soldier and dedicated nurse, but also as a devoted father, a loving grandfather and a man who believed in seeing the best in people. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the sacrifices he made and the love he gave so freely

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