Philip Desch

Philip Foster Desch 1920-2011 Philip Foster Desch, 90, died peacefully in his home at Kimball Farms on Friday afternoon, April 28. Born on October 19, 1920 in Racine, Wis., Mr. Desch led a quiet yet remarkable life. Trained at the University of Wisconsin in engineering, he dedicated his working years to various projects at General Electric sites that took him to Schenectady, N.Y. in 1941, to Philadelphia in 1956 and eventually to Pittsfield in May, 1957. Known for his attention to detail and thoroughness, Mr. Desch was an exemplary leader in the field of engineering at G.E. He had a particular gift for inventing solutions to problems and is listed as joint inventor on a couple of patents. When Mr. Desch retired from G.E. in the Spring of 1984, he shifted his dedication and energy to St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Pittsfield, where he served as Property Manager until his death on Friday. There he was instrumental in the oversight of numerous capital campaigns and renovations in the church building. Over the years, Phil shared his knowledge and love of the church property with others who now carry on his significant ministry. His steady presence, generosity and good cheer at St. Stephen's will long be remembered. Mr. Desch also shared of his time and talent throughout Berkshire County serving on the Board of Jacob's Pillow, the VNA and as a long-standing member of the Thursday Evening Club. He was a member of the Country Club of Pittsfield where he joined with the early bird golfers referred to as the 'dew sweepers.' Philip Desch's death marks the loss of a gentleman who, like many other men and women of his era, understood the importance each person can make in the life of a community. He willingly worked side by side with other people, often putting his own opinions aside for the sake of a greater good. Such wisdom and grace were characteristic of his humility. Philip Foster Desch was predeceased by his parents, Lillian M. Desch and George H. Desch. His surviving family include beloved cousins Virginia S. Meloney, of Syracuse N.Y., Charles Malany and his wife, Mary, of Syracuse N.Y., and David Gay and his wife, Tanner, of Albuquerque, N.M. In the final years of his life, Phil became part of other families, most notably that of Kathy and Peter Sulock of Pittsfield. FUNERAL NOTICE: Funeral services will be held for Mr. Desch on Saturday, May 7 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Dr. Hannah Anderson presiding. The interment of ashes will be held at a later date in the parish Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Desch requested that donations be made to the St. Stephen's Parish Memorial Fund, care of the WELLINGTON FUNERAL HOME, 220 East St., Pittsfield, MA 01201 who are in charge of arrangements.