Philip DiGati

Philip DiGati, 88, passed away peacefully at home surrounded with love on January 7, 2026.
Born in Boothwyn, PA, Phil was the son of the late Isabel (neé Clark) and Filippo DiGati. He is
also pre-deceased by brothers Joseph DiGati, John (Jack) DiGati, and Leroy DiGati.
Phil's early years were spent on the family's farm where an invaluable work ethic was learned
and honed helping his father with farm work as well as holding various construction jobs.
Phil worked as a Structural Steel Analyst and Inspector for Phoenix Steel Corporation in
Phoenixville, PA. What began in 1955 as a job sweeping the mill floors at 17 years old ended as
a successful career as Chief Inspector in an office with a view. After Phil's 32+ years with the
company, Phoenix closed its doors and he worked the last years of his career consulting at
Lehigh Testing Laboratories in New Castle, DE. Phil's expansive career in the steel industry
allowed him to analyze materials for various structural and military projects across the country
and beyond.
A 56 year resident of Oxford, PA, Phil tirelessly cared for his beloved home where he was often
seen mowing the grass, feeding his horses, tending his tomatoes and peppers, or gliding on his
barn side bench in the afternoon sun for a moment in between chores. You could always count
on Phil for a helping hand. He enjoyed helping his neighbors to a fault and always offered a
waving hand hello to passers by. Phil also shared a special friendship with his Amish neighbors-
his kindness, gentle advice, and easy intellect are gifts he freely gave to everyone.
Phil's love of Harness Horse Racing began when he was 19. He spent many years breeding,
training, and racing Standardbred horses, frequenting The Brandywine, Meadowlands, Dover,
Rosecroft, and Harrah's racetracks. He always had a little extra spirit in his voice when the topic
of racing came up, which seems fitting for a man whose name's origin literally means "Lover of
Horses".
When he wasn't racing, Phil also loved spending time on the golf course. Between the years
and years of racing and golf- the stories and experiences he would share about both of his
favorite pastimes would leave you giggling. If we are honest, most of Phil's stories would leave
you giggling. His clever wit, sharp perception, and quick sense of humor were also gifts he
shared freely to make our world a lighter place.
Surviving are his 3 adored children, daughter Michel R. DiGati (John) of Magnolia, DE, son
Philip M. DiGati (Vicki) of Lewes, DE, and daughter Rebecca L. DiGati (Michael) of West
Deptford, NJ, 9 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Phil also leaves behind 2 sisters,
Marion DiGati Eachus of Brookhaven, PA and Ruth Taylor of Oxford, PA, and several nieces
and nephews.
Relatives and friends are welcome to Phil's visitation on Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 10am
-11am at Ruffenach Family Funeral Home, 224 Penn Ave., Oxford, PA 19363. A private family
interment will follow.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Standardbred Retirement Foundation, Cream Ridge, NJ:

https://www.adoptahorse.org/memorial-commemorative