Philip Austin Walker, age 89, of Edinboro, PA, passed away peacefully at Edinboro Manor on December 31, 2012. Born in Cambridge Springs, PA, on June 1, 1923, he was the son of Russel R. and Velma Austin Walker.
Phil (PA to many) graduated from Edinboro High School in 1941, farming and working in the family business. He and his high school sweetheart, Virginia (Sue) Schruers, were married in June of 1943. During World War II he joined the US Marine Corps, serving in the Pacific theater. He returned to Edinboro, where he and his father owned and operated R.R. Walker and Son, a John Deere equipment dealership, until 1995. Phil also farmed Walker Way Farms.
Phil loved Edinboro. He was a lifelong member of the Edinboro First United Presbyterian Church, serving in many capacities. He was a lifetime member of the Edinboro Vol. Fire Department. He was also a member of Oasis Lodge #416 and a member of I.O.O.F. (Odd Fellows). He always enjoyed sports from the time he was an Edinboro Turtle through all the times he cheered for each new generation of General McLane Lancers. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren and their friends play any sport and watching his grandson, David Kushner, coach basketball. He also loved to hunt and fish, always happy to have friends hunt his property.
Phil is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Virginia (Sue) Schruers Walker, his brother-in-law Don Schruers and his wife, Debbie; his sons David (wife Connie Bennett) and Russel/Buzz (wife Mary Billings), and his daughters, Melodee (husband Jeffrey Kushner) and Marilee (husband Andrew Wnek). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren in whom he took much pride and pleasure. He was a beloved "grandpa" to them and to many others. He has been surrounded by a great outpouring of love and assistance during his recent time of need from his church family and his many friends. The family is very grateful for all who have so faithfully cared for Phil and Sue.
Callings hours will be held at First United Presbyterian Church in Edinboro on Friday, Jan. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. An I.O.O.F. service will be held at 3:30 p.m. and a Masonic service will be held at 8:30 p.m. The funeral service, presided over by Rev. Matthew Falco, will be held Saturday morning, Jan 5, at 11 a.m. at the church. Interment will be at Edinboro Cemetery with Military Honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to First United Presbyterian Church, 4281 Rte 6N, Edinboro, PA 16412.