G. Philip ‘Phil’ Reese, 92 of Karthaus died Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012 at the Clearfield Hospital following a short illness. He was born Aug. 1, 1920, a son of the late James W. and Helena (Healy) Reese.
In his early years, Mr. Reese worked at the family butcher shop and the family market, Reese Market. During the 1950’s, he started Philip Reese Coal Company. His love for the coal company was evident by the fact that after his retirement at age 70, he still participated in its every day operations.
He was an avid boxer, winning many titles, including the Golden Gloves while boxing all over Pennsylvania.
He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Frenchville, a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a lifetime member of the Karthaus Volunteer Fire Co.
Mr. Reese was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, and he achieved the rank of Seaman Second Class.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his longtime companion, Teresa Potter, on May 21, 2010. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Agnes Reese, Isabell Rolley and Betty Johnston and brothers, Bobby and Paul.
He is survived by his son, James W. Reese and his companion, Dorothy Gaines of Karthaus; a grandson, Andrew James ‘AJ’ Reese of Karthaus; a sister, Barbara ‘Okie’ Reese of Karthaus; a nephew, four nieces and their families.
Mass of Christian burial will be said at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Frenchville, with the Rev. David A. Perry Jr. as celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Frenchville.
In accordance with Mr. Reese’s wishes, there will be no public visitation.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, P.O. Box 159, Frenchville, PA 16836, the Salvation Army, 119 Byers St. Clearfield, PA 16830, the SPCA, 541 Graham Station Rd., Philipsburg, PA 16866 or to any Veterans of Foreign Wars Post.
The Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield, is in charge of the arrangements.
To sign the online guestbook, go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.