Walter Emery Funk

1922 - 2015

Walter Emery Funk of Honey Brook Walter Emery Funk entered into eternal peace on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015 at Neighborhood Hospice in West Chester. Walt was born on Oct. 13, 1922, in Phoenixville, and was the son of the late Horace and Bertha Funk. His sister, Elizabeth Hadfield and brother, Horace Funk, Jr. preceded him in his death. After graduation from Phoenixville High School, Walt served in World War II as a member of an Army Transport, the Merchant Marines and U.S. Navy Reserve. Following the war, he graduated from his beloved Penn State University, where he played basketball and served as the President of Sigma Pi fraternity. After a brief time playing semi-pro basketball with the Lancaster Red Roses, Walt settled in the Coatesville area. Walt dedicated his life to serving others as a coach, educator, and mentor for students and faculty in Chester County. Initially, he served as a basketball coach, teacher and principal at Scott High School in Coatesville. The majority of Walt's professional life was spent at the West Chester University as the boys' basketball coach and Chairperson of the Health Department. He is credited with establishing various programs including the nursing and environmental health programs as well as providing expertise and guidance to thousands of students. Walt will be remembered as a kind and giving person, loved for his genuine concern and devotion to others. While he earned many awards including Coatesville and West Chester University Hall of Fame recognitions, Walt avoided the limelight and celebrated his achievements through the successes of the many people who were by his side during his lifetime. As a husband, and father, his greatest joys were in the time spent with his family. Walt is survived by his wife of 33 years, Julie Grimes Funk; his four children, Rebecca Kirschman and the late Dennis Kirschman, Judith and Louis Laurento, Terry and Nancy Funk, and James and A'Lisa Funk. In addition, Walt shared his love with Julie's children, Jonathan and Verena Chase, Jeff and Alision Chase, Laura and Philip Conner, a niece Susan Hadfield, 12 grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. Walt was a member of the Living God Lutheran Church. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 10:30 a.m. at the church located at 3200 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook. Friends are welcome to visit the family at the church from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. or during the luncheon immediately following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Walt may be made to the Living God Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be made at www.jamesterryfuneralhome.com