MONTOURSVILLE - Philip A. Petter, 80, died on Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at the Valley View Nursing Center of complications from melanoma.

He was married to the former Thelma B. (Baker), who survives, on December 25, 1958.  They have celebrated 57 years as husband and wife.

Philip was born in New York, NY on February 24, 1936 and was the son of the late Arthur and Grace (Heyman) Petter.

Phil was employed by Reliable Furniture from 1959 until the business was sold in 1997. He served as president and CEO of the organization from 1984 through 1997.  His real passion was the military, in which he was very active from his enlistment in 1959 through his retirement more than 30 years later.  He served in the U.S. Army Reserve and retired as a Colonel and Commander of the 1079th Army Reserve Garrison at Fort Indiantown Gap. Most recently, Phil completed five tours as the Army Reserve Ambassador for Pennsylvania. Ambassadors are private citizens who serve the Army Reserve by educating organizations and local communities about the value of the Army Reserve, and work with local leaders to recognize and support the soldiers and their families. He was also a member of its executive committee, Employer Support for Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for 14 counties in north central Pennsylvania.

Many patriotic Williamsporters may know him as the master of ceremonies for the city's annual Flag Day ceremony, and for his work to help establish the Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park.

A 1954 graduate of Williamsport High School, Phil earned a degree from the Pennsylvania State University in 1958.

Recently retired as the president of the Valley View Nursing Home Board of Directors, Phil and his wife have been active members of Ohev Shalom congregation and have served in several leadership positions. Additionally, he was active with the Red Cross, serving as Lycoming County Chapter Chairman for several years, in addition to other leadership positions locally, and at the state and regional levels. Throughout his business career, he was active with the Williamsport Rotary Club, the Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, Williamsport Area Community College, WVIA, Divine Providence Hospital Foundation, the Penn State Club of Lycoming County, Williamsport Country Club, the Penn State Basketball and Wrestling clubs, among other organizations.

In addition to his wife Thelma, he is survived by four daughters; Marlene D. Petter of Kempton, Lynne S. Pierce (Scott F.) of Blue Bell, Karen J. Schwing (Fred G.) of Beach Haven, NJ and Ami B. Petter-Lipstein (Daniel C.) of Highland Park, NJ and seven grandchildren; Michael Pierce, Kelly Pierce, Jessica Schwing, Andy Schwing, Liora Petter-Lipstein, Eliana Petter-Lipstein and Merav Petter-Lipstein.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother; William E. Petter.

The funeral service will be held 11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 11, 2016 at the Maneval Allen Redmond Cremation & Funeral Home, 500 West 4th St., Williamsport with his spiritual leader Rabbi Joel Kessler officiating.  Burial follows in Ohev Sholom Cemetery.

In keeping with Jewish tradition, there will be no viewing or flowers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park in care of the City of Williamsport, or to a charity of one's choice.