We mourn the passing of Robert Hitchings Jr. (Bob / Hitch) on June 17, 2024. He died peacefully at The Mennonite Home in Lancaster PA where he received wonderful care from dedicated staff. He recently turned 90 and had a very full life.
Bob grew up in Elkins Park and attended Germantown Academy (Class of 1953) and served as Class President all 4 years of high school, along with being the Captain of both the soccer and basketball teams. He graduated from Franklin & Marshall College in 1957 and was a Captain of the soccer team there and was the President of both his fraternity and the Inter-Fraternity Council.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sue, and their two sons, Brian and his wife Susan, Andy and his wife Jenny, and daughter Marcy Radcliffe and her husband Scott, along with 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Bob was the President of Philadelphia Area Newspapers for many years after taking over the family business from his father who started the company in 1929.
Bob (Past Commodore of the Ocean City Yacht Club in 1985) had the honor and pleasure of serving with Alan Huntsman, John Carroll and Harry Bellwoar. His father Robert Hitchings Sr. was Commodore in 1957 and served alongside PC Matt Vollmer’s father Roy. The Hitchings family has been blessed to span 5 generations at OCYC.
By far, Bob’s favorite responsibility at OCYC was to present the Novice Regatta trophy each year. The award is in his father’s name, and it is one of the oldest perpetual trophies at the Club. He taught his own children a love of and respect for the water which they cherish to this day.
Bob was an avid golfer and was fortunate to have many friends from various clubs. He was always known for his story telling, infectious smile, overall good nature, kind and gentle personality, and humility. A Celebration of His Life will be held later this summer in Ocean City. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to The Mennonite Home, 1520 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster PA 17601 or Caring For Friends, 12271 Townsend Road, Philadelphia PA 19154.