Philip Grow

Philip F. Grow, 49, of Hummelstown, was called home to take his place in Heaven with his Loving Heavenly Father, on Friday, January 22, 2016. He was in his home surrounded by his loving family and hearing the voices of his beloved boys. Phil was a good and faithful servant through it all, never wavering in his Faith and always an inspiration to all who met him. He was one of the brightest lights in this world and truly made it a much better place to be. Everyone that knew him, LOVED him. Phil was irresistible because of his strong faith, kind heart, loving and peace-filled spirit, and sense of humor. He brought a smile and a warm heart to all. Born in Norristown on December 23, 1966, he was the son of Clara M. Kurz Grow of Palmyra and the late Walter R. Grow. Phil was currently employed by Arrow Land Solutions as Chief Appraiser & Relocation Director, “The Best We Ever Had” as stated by the owner of the company. Phil retired as Chief, Right-of-Way Acquisitions and Relocations Unit, PENNDOT where he ensured that people were treated fairly and he revised and rewrote the State Manual to reflect that. “The Best We Ever Had,” was a common review of his work. Phil founded and owned his own appraisal and consultant business, while in his 20’s. Phil was a 1984 graduate of Central Dauphin High School, attended the US Air Force Academy, and then graduated from Penn State University before receiving his Master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University. Phil was a member of the American Legion, IRWA, National Association of Realtors and the Appraisal Institute. He was a black belt in karate, enjoyed volleyball, playing soccer, fishing, horseback riding, riding his tractor in the fields and caring for the family farm and his fainting goats; but his greatest passion in life was his wife and children. Phil was a phenomenal husband and father who was completely devoted to his wife and children whom he absolutely lived for. Phil is survived by his loving wife, best friend and soul mate of 15 years, JoanMarie Comiskey Grow, whom he met playing volleyball and married on June 28, 2003; his two sons, Christian Bernard Grow and Austin Philip Grow both at home; two brothers, Daniel R. Grow husband of Laurel B. of Longmeadow, MA, and David S. Grow husband of Stacy L. of Duncannon; a sister, Donna M. Dunlap wife of The Rev. Daniel K. Dunlap of Church Creek, MD; and seven nieces and nephews, Patrick Grow, Stephen Grow, Mary Kate Grow, Kirk Dunlap, Tori Dunlap, Gareth Dunlap, and Hunter Grow. A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Friday, January 29, 2016 at All Saints Episcopal Church in Hershey. Visitation will begin at 10 AM with a Celebration of Life service at 11 AM with The Rev. Daniel K. Dunlap, his brother-in-law, officiating. A memorial account has been opened at Metro Bank entitled "Phil Grow Memorial Fund” and any donations will be used for his sons’ education and is greatly appreciated. Trefz & Bowser Funeral Home, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Hummelstown, is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.trefzandbowser.com.