Dr. Raphael Warkel

Dr. Raphael Lyle Warkel

June 27, 1942 – October 11, 2025

Dr. Raphael Lyle Warkel, 83, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on June 27, 1942, to Samuel and Betty Warkel, Dr. Warkel lived a life marked by service, intellect, creativity, and love. He proudly served his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army and went on to earn his medical degree from Drexel Medical College in Philadelphia (formerly MCP Hahnemann University School of Medicine).

A respected pathologist, Dr. Warkel moved to Indiana in 1979 to join Community Hospital and later AmeriPath, where he practiced with dedication until his retirement in 2012.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Warkel was a gifted and prolific painter and an avid art collector, with a special passion for American Illustration. He also loved to dance—a joy that led him to meet the love of his life, Harriet, when she was just sixteen. Together, they shared a lifelong love of dancing, including a cherished spotlight performance on the television show American Bandstand.

Dr. Warkel is survived by his beloved wife, Harriet; his son, Randall, his grandson, Matthew; and his great-granddaughter, Aqua. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved and cherished him.

Graveside services will be in Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation's North Cemetery on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 12:00 pm.

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home.