Kenneth H. Fichtner

Kenneth H. Fichtner of Fairview Village Kenneth H. Fichtner passed away on Monday May the 30th 2016 at the age of 95. Kenneth was born in Chester County to William E. Fichtner and Emma (Homsher) Fichtner. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years Joan E. (Gundlach) Fichtner, sister Janet Tarpley of Mariposa, Ca., daughters Diane Bowling of Wilmington, De., Cathy Fichtner and partner Patrick Kawka of Pittsburgh, and son Ken A. Fichtner of Worcester. Surviving step-children are Elizabeth Campbell of Pensacola, Fl., Patricia Lynn Newman of King of Prussia, and Herbert A. Plank of Lockport, La. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister Gladys Marshall and son William B. Fichtner. In his youth he would spend his free time searching through the plowed fields for Native American artifacts which remained a life-long interest. Shortly after leaving the farm he enlisted in the USMC during WWII where he spent fifty-four days on Iwo Jima and also part of the occupation forces in Japan. Returning home he resumed his career as a milkman for Nelson / Abbotts Dairies for forty years and then Rosenbergers Dairy for 10 years; his many tales from this time were used to entertain all who knew him. After retirement he was the driver for the patient transportation van for the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the ALS (Lou Gherig’s disease) Association. He enjoyed travelling with his family and going camping all across the US, collecting Native American artifacts and teaching about their use and creation, and rooting for the Phils. His favorite activity was sitting outside on warm nights and watching the animals in the backyard and fields beyond the house. His least favorite activity was waiting for his wife after church services were over. He was active in the church community in his lifetime at, Upper Octorara Presbyterian, Haws Ave Methodist, St Paul’s Lutheran, and Trinity Lutheran. Relatives and friends may pay respect on Friday evening June 3rd from 7-9pm at Trinity Lutheran Church 1190 Valley Forge Road Fairview Village Pa 19403 or Saturday Morning June 4th from 10-10:50am at the same location prior to service at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kenneth’s name can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church at the above address, Running Strong for American Indian Youth at indianyouth.org, or the Norristown Salvation Army. To share your fondest memories of Kenneth, visit www.lifecelebration.com