Philip W. Hirschy
Philip W. Hirschy, 91, was called Sunday to his heavenly home.
Born June 15, 1924, in Berne, Ind., he was the son of the Rev. Norman and Esther (Sprunger) Hirschy. Phil grew up in Evans City, where his dad pastored the First Baptist Church for 35 years.
He was wounded twice while serving in the U.S. Army during the Battle of the Bulge.
Phil returned home in 1945 and resumed his education, graduating from Geneva College in 1948. In addition, he earned his master's degrees from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Pennsylvania.
He began his career as a science teacher at the Evans City High School, and he retired from the Seneca Valley School District in 1983, after 35 years of teaching.
Phil was a lifelong learner and a voracious reader, who also enjoyed airplanes, gardening and telling stories.
Phil served the Lord at his church as a deacon, trustee, treasurer, Sunday school teacher and faithful prayer warrior throughout his life. He was also an active member of the Gideons International, helping to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through God's Word for many years.
He tirelessly served his community as a longtime member of the Evans City Borough Council and the Evans City Historical Society.
Phil was known far and wide as “the Hershey Kiss man,” giving out his “calling card” Hershey Kisses to all and sundry. He was known for his ready wit and contagious smile.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Fae (Wahl), whom he married Nov. 1, 1946; his son, Dean (Jill) of Connoquenessing; his daughters, Beth Britton O'Hara (Bud) of Minneola, Fla., and Kae (Dwight) Kirkwood of Evans City; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dawn; his son-in-law, Jim Britton; and his grandson, Shane Britton.
He also is survived by his brother, Daniel of Waterville, Maine; and his sister, Kathryn of Winona Lake, Ind.
Preceding him in death were three siblings, Harlan, Joyce and Lois.
HIRSCHY — The family will welcome relatives and friends of Philip W. Hirschy, who died Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church, 242 S. Washington St., Evans City. A memorial service will follow. Burial will be private.The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Phil's honor to Gideons International at P.O. Box 48, New Wilmington, PA 16142 or www.gideons.org.Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Boylan Funeral Home, 116 E. Main St., Evans City.Online condolences and directions are at www.boylanfuneralhome.com.
