Longtime Hicksville resident Robert E. Birkel, Jr., the brother of Amity Harbor residents Brian Birkel and his wife Jean, died June 16, 2008 at his home. He was 59.

He was born November 15, 1948 to Robert E., Sr. and Henrietta (nee Maines) in Jamaica, Queens and served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

In addition to his brother and sister-in-law, he leaves behind his niece; Jacquelyn; his longtime canine companion; Mickey; and many aunts, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Robin.

The Rev. David W. Anglin, pastor of the St. Paul's Lutheran Church, officiated at a Funeral Service in the Powell Funeral Home in Amityville. Interment followed in the Long Island National Cemetery at Pinelawn with Military Honors.