Edward W. Patchell, former LHS president
Edward W. Patchell, 87, loving husband, father and grandfather, of Lewes, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pa., passed away peacefully Tuesday June 26, 2012, at his residence, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Altoona, Pa., Nov. 10, 1924, son of the late Elsie Ruby and Walter Patchell. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brother, Robert; and granddaughter Rebecca Ehehalt.
Edward was a licensed professional engineer and retired from U.S. Steel Duquesne Works Rolling Division and United Engineering Consultants. He also was the proprietor of Laurel Run Christmas Tree Farm. He was a graduate of Western Reserve Academy and the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering.
While living in Lewes his activities included being a member and past president of the Lewes Historical Society; member of the City of Lewes Commercial Architecture Review Committee; serving as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Commander 12-0-9; served as trustee of Lewes Presbyterian Church and member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was also instrumental in introducing the U.S. Coast Guard to the Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. The Lewes Historical Society honored Edward with the Dr. James E. Marvil Lifetime Service Award.
Mr. Patchell was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, was a 32nd degree Mason, member of the Pennsylvania Consistory Syria Temple and served as president of the West Jefferson Hills School Board. Also, he had been active in the Pleasant Hills Presbyterian Church where he had served as elder and deacon as well as many other local area community organizations.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nina; children Edward W. Patchell Jr. of Pittsburgh, Kathryn P. Ehehalt of Chesapeake, Va. and Jane R. Patchell of Milton; daughter-in-law Patricia; son-in-law John Ehehalt; and grandchildren John Gregory Ehehalt Jr. and Elizabeth and David Patchell.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 30, at the Lewes Presbyterian Church, 133 Kings Highway, Lewes. Friends may visit with the family from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, June 29, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes. Private interment will be held at a later date at Sewickley Cemetery in Sewickley, Pa.
In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or to Lewes Presbyterian Church Maintenance Fund, address above.
