Richard H. Short, 100, of West Chester, PA, died March 25, 2024 at the Coatesville Veterans Administration Community Living Center.

Born near Pittsburgh, PA, his family moved to Essington when he was age 3.  He resided there for 42 years, in Glen Mills for 45 years and in West Chester for the past 11 years.

Richard was the son of the late Harry and Grace McCoy Short.  He attended Ridley Park High School and Drexel University.

Richard was employed by Westinghouse in Lester, PA in steam turbine tool planning for 42 years before retiring in 1984.

Richard was a member of St. John's Tinicum Lutheran Church for 97 years where he was a council member, treasurer and choir member.  He was also very active in Boy Scout Troop 37 sponsored by his church, having earned the Eagle Scout rank in his youth.  Later he served as Scout Master and received the Lamb Award for service to youth in connection with his church and scouts.

Richard's education, work experience, church and scouting activities were interrupted by service in the US Army during WWII.  He served in Greenland in artillery, then in the European Theatre in infantry, including combat in the Battle of Bulge.  He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart and many other commendations for his service.

Richard had a very full and inspiring life including trapping, hunting and target shooting, fishing, bowling, golf and square dancing with his wife.  He enjoyed traveling, having visited every state and most Canadian provinces.  His positive nature and lightheartedness were gifts to all.

Pre-Deceased By:  Richard was the loving husband of Hazel C. Harshbarger Short, married 67 years before her death in 2013.  He was also pre-deceased by brothers Bob (Emma) and Emmett.

Survivors:  Richard was the devoted father of David R. Short (Penny), and Donald W. Short (Karen).  He was "Poppy" to grandchildren Kendra L. Moore (Jeremy) and Brandon W. Short.  He is also survived by great grandchildren Sarah, Kaelynne and Jake and by one of his brothers Bernard (Dorothy), sister-in-law Lorena, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service:  11:00 AM Friday April 5th at St. John's Tinicum Lutheran Church, 601 Seneca St., Essington, where family and friends may call from 9:45 to 10:45 AM.

Burial:  Glenwood Memorial Gardens, Broomall, PA with Military Honors.

Memorial Gifts:  To the Department of Veterans Affairs, c/o VA Coatesville Healthcare System, CDCE 135, 1400 Blackhorse Hill Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 or at Coatesville.va.gov