Obituary of Philip H. Tierney

Philip H. "Pete" of Irondequoit: October 28, 1913 ~ June 24, 2018. Pete was 104 years, 7 months, 24 days old. Pete’s longevity is credited specifically to Mt Gay Rum. “Just the right amount every day.”

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Jane (Arnie) Gissin. His grandsons, Marty (Amanda) Bonnington, Philip (Rebecca) Grayson. His great-grandchildren, Alicia, Philip, Kaden, Nolan, Hazel. His step-grandchildren, Steve (Julie) Gissin, Mindy (Joel) DiSanto, and step-great-grandchildren, Austin, Nick, Chelsea, Livy, Sammy. Pete is also survived by his nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Pete was pre-deceased by his wife, Virginia (nee Tickell) and son, Philip Martin.

Pete was the oldest and longest member of Rochester Yacht Club. He considered RYC his second home, and everyone there his second family. Special thanks to Paul Schumacher, who made sure Pete was there every Thursday for lunch with the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out). And to Paul’s wife, Jan, who watched over him like a mother during Friday night dinners there.

Pete was a proud WWII veteran, earning the Bronze Star (truly the greatest generation). He served in the Army Engineers, from Ft Dix to England, France, Germany, Italy, Africa. He kept a meticulous diary (written and photographic) of his service. Pete and MJ were honored to go on Honor Flight in June, 2008. 

Pete was a 1931 graduate of Aquinas Institute, and member of the first Aquinas football team.

Pete was a UofR graduate and a Kodak retiree.

Much gratitude to Dr Robert Thomson, JMS In Home Care of Webster, the staffs of Chapel Oaks, St Ann’s Home and Wegman Transitional Care. Pete never would have lived so well, and so long, without all of you.

Pete’s Memorial Mass will be Thursday, June 28, at 10:30am at St Ann’s Chapel, 1500 Portland Ave, Rochester.

Donations in Pete’s memory may be made to The Star Fund, c/o St Ann’s Foundation, 1500 Portland Ave, Rochester, 14621.