Galen R. Hoke, 83 of Ridley Park died January 30, 2015 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Shiloh York County PA, son of the late Lloyd G. and Lola Gemmill Hoke, he had been a resident of Ridley Park for the past 50 years.


"Hoke" as some of his friends and loved ones would call him graduated from Milton Hershey School for Boys in 1949. He enjoyed playing sports, especially baseball, he had the opportunity to sign a minor league contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers but the Korean War broke out and he chose duty for his country over personal gains. He went on to become a decorated US Navy Retired Veteran, serving for over 20 years during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. After his service, he went on to be a Building Engineer for ARA Services. In 1985, Galen and other members of his family started H&H Heating and Air Conditioning where he was the President, retiring in 1993.


He loved coaching baseball for the Ridley Park Boys Club and playing softball for Dolans Bar, Since retiring he and his wife would spend winters in Florida and summers at their home in Ridley Park.


He was a dedicated family man who enjoyed activities with them that included; Camping on Assateague Island Md. Crabbing, Fishing, Boating, Hunting, Gardening, Woodworking, Bowling and was a huge Philadelphia Sports fan.


He was a member of The Church of St. Madeline, VFW Post 7213 in Norwood and the American Legion.


He was brother of the late Lloyd G. Jr. and Darvin L. Hoke.


Survivors: his wife of 61 years Mary Lue Hoke, father of Michael J. Hoke (Maureen), Peggy Ann Glenn (Robert) and Joseph L. Hoke (Linda), also seven grandchildren.


Visitation 9:30 to 10:15 AM Thursday, February 5, 2015 at The Church of St. Madeline, Penn St. and Morton Ave. Ridley Park, where a Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 AM


Burial: Holy Cross Cemetery.


In Lieu of Flowers Memorial Gifts: to the above church, c/o 110 Park St., Ridley Park, PA 19078