Obituary of David A. Philhower

David Allan Philhower passed suddenly on Monday, January 27th, 2020. He shared 63 years of faith and love with his family. A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 3rd, 2020, at 10 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Rockaway, 35 Church St., Rockaway. Visiting hours will be on Sunday, February 2nd, from 1 pm to 5 pm at the Norman Dean Home Funeral Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. Flowers are lovely, but if you wish, please consider a donation to the First Presbyterian Church in Dave’s memory. Please share your memories here. His family will cherish them forever. Born in Somerville, Dave was one of three sons to bless the Philhower family. After HS, he attended Dartmouth College, graduating in 1979. In 1984 he met Vicki Williams, and the rest was history. They married on July 1st, 1989, and built their home in Rockaway. A few years later, they were blessed with three sons of their own! Dave worked hard to give his family a beautiful life. He made sure to instill in the kids the values that he held so dear- family, education, friendships, faith, and giving back. Dave was the guy who was always available to help out. He coached football, basketball, and lacrosse for his kids and their friends. Dave spent considerable time at church and gave so much of himself to others. He was a “yes” man, and his heart was always open. A fellow coach commented that Dave was a “humble giver.” After his time with Yellow Freight, he found more time to enjoy his family and give back to Dartmouth. He was a class agent for Dartmouth’s class of ’79 and found his passion working with classmates whom he respected and cherished as friends. These classmates became a loving support system for him as he donated his time, talent, and desire for Dartmouth. He helped Dartmouth become a second home for a countless number of students, just like Dartmouth was for him. Dave lived his 63 years of life to its fullest, appreciating all of God’s gifts. He loved the outdoors and found solace in nature. He was always incredibly selfless, constantly putting strangers and friends before himself, and loved to see others do the same. He leaves only joyful memories to his wife Vicki of 30 years; his sons Jake, Ben, and Dan; his parents Earl & Ruth Philhower; his brothers Kenny (Cindy Wyatt) and Don Philhower (Sue); his sister in law and brother in law (and best friend) Debbie and Randy Larzelere, his brother in law Larry Williams (Nancy) and many dear nephews, nieces, friends, neighbors, and fellow alumni.