Philip J. Ferrese, 68, of Olyphant, died Saturday after bravely fighting lung cancer since July 2016. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Frances DeMatteo Ferrese.
Born Sept. 1, 1948, in, Rochester, New York, son of the late Marian Croom Ferrese and Philip J. Ferrese, he attended Scranton Technical High School. He honorably served his country in the Navy aboard the USS Hoist in Norfolk, Virginia. He worked for 29 years at Preston Trucking Co., DiMare Fresh, and before retirement in 2015, for Pride Mobility in Duryea. He loved working at Pride and his co-workers treated with much respect.
He leaves behind a loving family who will forever adore him and miss him. Fran met Phil when they were in high school and it was a true love that lasted forever. Their time together will forever be cherished.
Phil was proud of both of his children, adored his grandchildren and always looked forward to being with them. He always tried to be involved in his grandchildren's activities. He looked forward to Friday family pizza night.
He often put others' needs before his own, especially his family. He sacrificed so much, working so hard to provide a good life for them. Phil was always ready to lend a helping hand to his fammily, friends and neighbors and would do anything to help those who needed it. He had a lifelong love a driving the roads and highways, especially tractor-trailers. He enjoyed NASCAR racing, always loved a delicious meal or dessert made by his wife, and more recently made memories traveling to Disney World with his family. He could always be found fixinng things around the house with his collection of tools and gadgets. Up until the time of his illness, he was healthy and enjoying his recent retirement.
He was a former member of Holy Ghost Church, now Holy Cross Parish, Olyphant. The family wishes to express its sincere appreciation for the care provided by Dr. Janet Erickson, Dr. Kishori G. Veerabhadrappa during his illness. They also appreciate the kindness of the doctors, nurses and staff of Hospice of the Sacred Heart who took exceptional care of him.
Also surviving are his daughter, Laura Burns and husband, Patrick, Clarks Green; a son, Philip J. Ferrese Jr., Olyphant; a grandson, Tristan Patrick Burns, and granddaughter, Peyton Elizagbeth Burns, Clarks Green; a brother, Warren, Lake Ariel; sisters, Judy Dougher and husband, Ron, Old Forge; and Donna Wrobleski and husband, Richard, Lake Ariel; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his godfather, Monsignor Philip A. Gray, who also officiated at their marriage 47 years ago. He will be missed by his dog, Sadie.
The funeral will be Thursday at 9 a.m. from the Michael P. Glinsky Funeral Home, 129 Grant St., Olyphant, with Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 in Holy Cross Parish at St. Patrick's Church, Delaware Street, Olyphant, to be celebrated by Monsignor Michael Delaney and Monsignor Constantine V. Siconolfi. Interment, Holy Ghost Cemetery, Olyphant.
The family will receive relatives and friends Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Cross Church, Olyphant; Marywood University, Scranton; or Hospice of the Sacred Heart..