Richard “Dick” Harland Wilson

Richard “Dick” Wilson, age 100, of Middletown, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025. A proud veteran, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and committed community leader, Dick’s century of life was marked by purpose, generosity, and unwavering service.

Born at home on Peach Street in West Philadelphia in 1925, Dick graduated from John Bartram High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He served honorably for three years as a Radioman aboard the USS Santee (CVE-29) during WWII. She was awarded 8 battle stars during Dick’s service and saw combat in the historic Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle in history.

Following his discharge in March 1946, Dick returned to Philadelphia and joined his father at the Wilson Safe Company and in his Masonic lodge. He continued his education at the Wharton School of Business, graduating with the Class of 1951, and served as Worshipful Master in 1957 of what is now William L. Elkins Lodge No. 271 F. & A.M. of Pennsylvania.

It was during his professional career that he met the love of his life, Peggy Swannick, after she contacted him to inspect a safe burglary at her family’s business. That fateful call led to a lifelong partnership—Dick and Peggy married in 1962, and made their home in Springfield, Pennsylvania, where they raised their two children, Ray and Margie.

Dick was deeply committed to his community. He joined St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and served on the church council. He was a dedicated member of the Lions Club of Springfield, serving two terms as President and later as District Governor of District 14A. He was appointed to the board of the Lions Eye Bank of Philadelphia, where he served as a trustee for many years. In addition, Dick was elected to the Springfield School Board, serving with dedication for over a decade, and involved in Troop 512 BSA’s Troop Committee.

In his personal life, Dick was a man of many interests. He loved boating, golf, fishing, traveling the world, and had a keen interest in investing, which he pursued with the same curiosity and discipline that marked his entire life. He enjoyed spending his winters in Islamorada, FL, and summers in Ocean City, NJ where he kept several boats over the years.

Recently, he was full of pride for his shipmates, and ship, when he was honored by the Media Theatre Veterans Alliance for his extraordinary service in the United States Navy during World War II.

Dick was predeceased by his parents, Harland and Mildred Wilson, and his sister, Virginia Mershon. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Peggy Wilson; his son, Ray Wilson (Eileen); his daughter, Margie Larkin (Bob); and his cherished grandchildren: Ellen and Andrew Wilson, and Sarah and Nora Larkin.

Dick’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched—as a family man, veteran, friend, and pillar of his community. His life was a testament to the values of service, faith, and love.

Relatives and Friends are invited to his Viewing, Saturday, May 10^th 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM followed by his Funeral Service 12 NOON in the Main Chapel at the DAnjolell Memorial Home of Broomall 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008. Interment Arlington Cemetery, Drexel Hill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick’s memory to:

AltruVision – A Lions Eye Bank

401 N. 3rd Street, Suite 305

Philadelphia, PA 19123

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