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Harry Hess Obituary
August 29, 1925 - March 8, 2018
Myerstown
Harry Walton Hess, 92, died peacefully Thursday, March 8, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Fawn Grove, PA on August 29, 1925 to Avon and Jessie (Jones) Hess.
He is survived by his loving wife of more than 69 years, Janice Grace (McDonald) Hess; daughter, Rebekah Sparks, wife of Charles Sparks of Exeter; two sons, Geoffry Hess, husband of Georgie Hess of Harrisburg and Gregory Hess, husband of Susan Hess of Chester County. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Jocelyn and Greg Valentine, Ryan and Hillary Hess, Abbey and Jeremy Mumma, Jason and Allie Hess, Kyle and Michelle Hess, Kari Hess; and his amazing great-grandchildren, Brinley, Nixon, Bristol, Luca, Gabe, Austin, Elliott, Sullivan, Harry, and Audrey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Gemmill; and two daughters, Jessica and Amy Hess.
Harry earned a BS in education at West Chester University, a Master's at Delaware University, and furthered his education at Temple. Harry Hess spent over 40 years in education. His career started as a teacher in the Southern York County School District. Later he worked in the Owen J. Roberts School District as a principal and then as Director of Curriculum before retiring.
Harry was active in the Cedarville Methodist Church, Pottstown, and later the Church of the Good Shepherd of Lebanon. Harry and his wife, Janice, founded The Compassionate Friends chapter of Pottstown after their daughters' deaths. Harry was active in several educational groups. During his retirement Harry was an active volunteer with several organizations including the Area Agency on Aging and Pennsylvania Retired School Administrators Association.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2018, beginning with visitation at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 12 p.m., at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 1500 Quentin Road Lebanon.
Contributions in Harry's memory may be made to the Church of the Good Shepherd.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harry Hess
Sponsored by InYork.com.
March 13, 2018
Janice and family,
So sorry to hear about Harry. He will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a great guy and it has been a pleasure to have known him. His contributions to the OJRSD and community will be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are wit you and your family.
Dave Strock
Lisa (Frame) Phillips
March 13, 2018
My life was blessed w/ his presence for all of my school years at OJR. He was an awesome principal, mentor and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and he will forever remain in my heart.
Betty Horton
March 13, 2018
Janice and children are sincerest sympathy in the loss of dear dear Harry. Mother has many childhood memories of him and a little red wagon. He was never forgotten through the years and we pray his passing was as peaceful as possible. The family grows ever smaller here on earth but we will be reunited once again.
Love, Cousin Betty (Jones) Horton and Sandy
Ernie Rambo
March 13, 2018
Our hearts are with you at this time. May you be comforted in knowing that Harry was gentle but a man of strength. --grateful for his leadership as a school administrator. His life has impacted many others.
March 13, 2018
Dear Janice and Family , sending my message of comfort to you all.What a great principal and also a great husband, father,and human Sandra K. Davies
March 12, 2018
May the hope of everlasting life sustain and comfort you and your family as you mourn the passing of your love one. My deepest condolences
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