Harold J. Irwin Sr., 76, of Lititz, PA. Harold died on Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at his home.
Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Marlin and Margaret (Huber) Irwin and the husband of Sumika (Tanaka) Irwin, whom he was married to for 47 years.
Harold attended Warwick High School where he was known to be a talented athlete. After high school Harold joined the United States Air Force and served for more than 20 years before retiring to Lititz where he ran Owl Hill Lawn Care.
While in the United States Air Force Harold enjoyed many adventures such as scuba diving in Okinawa, Japan; shopping the local markets in Thailand and the Philippines; fishing for trout and bass in Arkansas; as well as experiencing Korea, Australia, Florida, Texas, California and Illinois. A lifelong picker, Harold’s collections represent his appreciation of the places he visited and the history he experienced.
A lifelong dog lover, Harold and his beloved dog Beaux would be seen driving around Lititz, sharing a lunch at the drive thru, or hanging out at home. Harold was always prepared to deliver a straight faced wise crack, lend a hand to a friend or stranger, or just sit back and quietly observe. There was no plant he could not save or thing he could not fix.
In addition to his wife, Harold is survived by his son Douglas Irwin of North Carolina, from his first marriage; son Harold J. Irwin Jr. of California; daughter Michele N. Metzler (late) and Shaun Metzler of Lititz; son Edward and Lynn Irwin of Virginia; and four grandchildren, Morgan, Seth, Riley and Eddie.
Harold was preceded in death by his sister Yvonne E. Haus.
Services will be held on Friday, September 7, 2018 at 6:00 pm at Ephrata Grace Church located at 62 Hahnstown Road, Ephrata, PA 17522.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Harold’s name to: Ann B. Barsinger Cancer Institute, Cancer Patient Support Fund, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 (https://lancastergeneralhealth.org/makeagift/) or to Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 (https://www.hospiceconnect.org/give).
To leave the family an online condolence, visit www.creamationlancasterpa.com
Sumaka & family
Harold was in my daily prayers ever since discovery of his cancer. He was always fun to talk with at Morgan’s ball games as well as chatting daily at Dosey Dough. I know he will be greatly missed. May God bless you all at this sad time.
Don Krushinski
I can’t adequately express the sadness I feel for you at this time.
30 years ago our families met and I have great memories of many
get-togethers as our children grew up together.
I will always remember Harold as a big but a gentle man of gentle
heart and gentle smile with few words. We felt his presence around us
but rarely heard him utter a sentence but taking everything in.
Sumika, you are in my thoughts and am only a phone call away.
My condolences to your family.
Love, Kathy
Dear Sumika san,
I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you comfort and peace. I am here for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out, especially during this difficult time.
Love,
Taeko