Eric Andrew Kissel

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Mr. Kissel was the son of David Edwin Kissel and Mary Seneker Kissel and was preceded in death by grandparents, Henry M. Kissel and Cecilia Martin Kissel of Haubstadt, IN and Paul Seneker and Trula Pope Seneker of Bristol, TN.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, include sisters, Laura Kissel of Columbia, SC and Anne Kissel Harper and her husband, Joe Dan Harper of Fredonia, NY; niece, Amelia Harper, and nephew, Elias Harper.

Eric was a charter member of Georgia Options, Inc. and lived in his own home with support since 1992. He was a leader in demonstrating that people with disabilities can lead typical lives as valued community members if they have the support they need. With assistance, Eric became an award-winning community volunteer. He volunteered weekly at the Food Bank of Northeast GA for over four years and was named a finalist for the TBS Pathfinder award in 2004 for his work there. He also delivered Meals on Wheels and volunteered at the Council on Aging and at the Athens-Clarke County Library. He was a recognized artist and the president of Splashes By Eric, an on-line greeting card and art print business.

Eric loved music, prayers, and being part of the Athens community. He loved choosing cards and gifts for his family and friends, and he gave the ultimate gift at the end of his life in becoming an organ donor.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, July 20 at The University of Georgia Catholic Center, 1344 S. Lumpkin Street, with Fr. Thomas Vigliotta officiating. Private Interment will follow. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday, July 19 at Bernstein Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcomed. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Georgia Options Foundation, 160 Ben Burton Rd, Bogart, GA 30622.

Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.