Angela Dawn Markel

Angela Dawn Markel, age 51, of Big Flat, Arkansas, passed away suddenly at her residence on May 6, 2026. Angela was born on August 9, 1974, in Lebanon, Missouri to Sandra Allen and Victor Gargus. She graduated from Buffalo High School in 1992. From childhood, Angela had a deep passion for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. She worked briefly in taxidermy. She also loved horses and spent many nights camping locally and in the mountains of Colorado and Arkansas with her trusted horse, surrounded by close family and friends. Riding her horse at Lead Mine Conservation area and in the Arkansas mountains were some of her favorite pastimes. She later pursued her dream of working at Caney Mountain Horse Camp to be among others who shared her love of nature and horses. Along with her horse Muddy, her two King Charles Cavaliers were her pride and joy. Angela developed a love for quilting and crocheting as a young girl under the guidance of her Grandma Lillian Gargus. She carried that gift throughout her life. She created many beautiful afghans and quilts that will remain treasured by those who knew and loved her. She also loved music and was a talented pianist, with the ability to play many other instruments. During her time at Buffalo High School, she was actively involved in band and marched with The Buffalo Gals, the renowned high school drum and bugle corp. Angela could do almost anything she set her mind to. If she did not know how to do something, she would learn and give it a try, never afraid to take on something new. She spent most of her adult life working as an over-the-road truck driver with her husband of 20 years, Glen "Skeeter" Markel. Though their marriage ended, Skeeter remained a beloved member of the family. Angela was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Clifford and Ramona Medcalf; her paternal grandparents, Tom and Lillian Gargus; and many aunts and uncles whom she loved. She is survived by her parents, Victor and Marilynn Gargus of Tunas, Missouri, and Sandra Allen of Mountain View, Arkansas; her sister, Jennifer Keeling and husband Jeff of Halfway, Missouri; her niece and nephew, Jack and Kyra Keeling of Halfway; her step-brother, Jerry Wise and wife Megan of O'Fallon, Missouri; and her nieces, Emma and Nora Wise. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. To honor Angela’s memory, contributions to assist with funeral and legal costs may be made to the Angela Markel Memorial Fund in care of OakStar Bank at 1020 East Battlefield Road, Springfield, MO 65807. In lieu of flowers, donations in Angela’s honor may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri at www.swh.org. Memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 4 pm at the Cantlon – Otterness and Viets Funeral home with Pastor Jared Proctor officiating. A time of visitation will be held immediately prior beginning at 3 pm. Following the memorial service, a private family inurnment will take place at Lone Rock Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri.

Angela Dawn Markel

August 9, 1974 - May 6, 2026