Phillip “Phil” A. Messenger, 78, of Myerstown was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at his residence.
Born in Ithaca, New York on February 17th, 1944, he was the son of the late Albert G. and Emma I. (Westmiller) Messenger.
He leaves a hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were always entertained by his one-of-a-kind personality and truly unique sense of humor. He brought life to the party in his own special way.
Surviving is four children, Michelle L. Messenger of Texas, Michael A. Messenger Sr., husband of Gina M. of Cleona, Jeff J. Brown of Iowa, Brandy L. O’Neil of Iowa, two stepchildren, Melissa Geibe, wife of Gary of Jonestown, Gary Treadway of Shermansdale, a brother, Donald Messenger, husband of Janet of Florida, eighteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and his companion, Jean Weaver of Honey Brook.
In addition to his parents, Phillip is preceded in death by a stepchild, Andrew Treadway, and two brothers, Richard and Keith Messenger.
At an early age, Phil grew fond of the motor industry and loved to work on cars alongside his father and brothers. He went on to become an auto mechanic, served as a pit mechanic on his brother’s racing team, and later worked as the pit steward for the four-cylinder mini-stock class at Five Mile Point Speedway in Binghamton, NY. Phil also spent over 30 years on the road as a truck driver. One of his favorite memories in his career was hauling trailers for the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Phil never strayed too far from the auto industry even in his elder years. Most recently, he worked as a dispatcher at PennDOT in Lebanon County.
You could find him enjoying evenings on his back porch, days well spent at the race track, the VFW Post 910 for a hearty meal, Heisey’s Diner for Saturday lunch, or at ‘the shop’ aiding in the success of his son’s Snap-on business.
Phil was loved by so many. Throughout his life, he left an impression wherever he went. He is already immensely missed by his friends and family.
A public visitation will be held from 4:00 pm-6:00 pm on Thursday, June 16th, 2022, at Kreamer Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 618 E. Main St. Annville, PA 17003. A Memorial Service will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday at the Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Friday, June 17th at Frear Memorial Park Cemetery in Ithaca, NY at 12:00pm.
Kreamer Funeral Home and Crematory, Annville is handling arrangements.
