James Burke De Wan Jr.

James Burke De Wan Jr., 85, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away on Thursday, May 6, 2021, while a patient at the Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital. He was born on May 4, 1936, to the late James Burke De Wan Sr., and Margaret Helen (Geiger) De Wan in Philadelphia. After James graduated high school he went on to acting school in New York. He later performed on Broadway as a member of the cast of Death of a Salesman. Throughout his life he had many jobs including owning his own trucking business. He retired as a horse and carriage tour guide in Philadelphia. James married Mary “Darlene” Dickerson on June 16, 1965, in upstate New York; Darlene preceded him in passing. He honorably served his country with the United States Army as a MP. He was also a member of The Pistol Team and loved firearms. James would often bring up how he guarded Elvis Presley, which led to a favorite story of his about showering with Elvis. James loved his family and was affectionately known as “Gappy”, “Poppy”, and “Dad”. James is survived by three children; Daryl J. (Patty) De Wan of Beverly Hills, FL; Denise M. (John) Bottinger of Glenside, PA; Diane E. De Wan of Philadelphia, PA; three grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and his longtime significant other, Ruth Rafferty. James was preceded in passing by his wife and parents. Services were held privately to the family with interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA. Arrangements have been entrusted to the McKinney – d’Argy Funeral Home, 345 Main Street, Brookville, PA 15825. Online condolences and other information may be found by visiting www.mckinneydargy.com

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