Lt Col, USAF (Retired) of Honolulu, HI went to be with the Lord on January 7, 2023, at 65 years of age. Beloved husband to Mercy for 28 years, proud father of Seth and Sean, both Lieutenants in the United States Air Force. Richard was born in Warren, OH in 1957 to John J and Anita B Kinel. He graduated from Newton Falls High School in 1975 at which time he joined the Air Force ROTC program and graduated from Penn State University in 1980, with a degree in meteorology. Richard's military career as a weather officer began at Ft. Polk Louisiana. Following, he continued his career at various duty stations around the world, finishing his total military service in Hawaii after 23 years. Concurrent with his military service, Rich worked as a forecaster for the National Weather Service. After 28 years of service at the NWS, Rich retired on December 31, 2022 in Honolulu, Hawaii totaling over 41 years of combined federal service. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, John J. and Anita B. He is survived by his wife, Mercy, sons Seth and Sean, five brothers (John, Don, Van, Larry, and Nick) and two sisters (Jeannette and Dianne). Rich was a man of singular purpose, searching, learning and passing on his love of the Lord Jesus Christ. His journey was winding and full of questioning, however when the truth entered his heart, he became wholly God's. He was always willing to share his intelligent thoughts regarding weather and the lord. He enjoyed reading, participating in his son's sports throughout their school years, traveling and other quiet pursuits. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, co-workers and those he came in contact with throughout his life. A celebration of life will be held at 10:00am with visitation starting at 9:00am on Friday February 24, 2023 at 47-314 Ahaolelo Road Kaneohe, Hi 96744. Interment to follow at Hawaii State Veteran's Cemetery at 1:00pm with Military Honors.Arrangements Provided By:
Hosoi Garden Mortuary
