George Diller

George E. Diller, age 89, of Erie, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2014 suddenly at home.

He was born on May 2, 1925 in Pittsburgh, PA, son of Elvin J. Diller and Ruth Davis Diller. Survivors include his wife, Shirley Allison Diller and their son, James L. Diller and his wife Sheila of Tucson, AZ.

George graduated from Munhall High School in May of 1943, and was sworn into the US Army in July 1943. During World War II he served in the South Pacific as an infantry scout with the Army’s 26th infantry Scout Dog Platoon. He participated in three initial assault landings in New Guinea, Dutch East Indies and the Philippines. He was one of the first troops to occupy Japan at the end of the war. He was awarded the combat Infantryman’s Badge; the Bronze Star medal, Asiatic-Pacific Medal with two campaign Stars, the Philippines Independence Medal, Army Occupation Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and the Army Good Conduct Medal.

George and Shirley were married in Pittsburgh on September 13, 1947, and would have celebrated 67 years together next month.

George had been a metal salesman for over 60 years, and was employed as territory manager for H&D Steel of North Royalton, OH until his death.

He was a member, and served as usher at Wayside Presbyterian Church, a life member and past Commander of V.F.W. Post 5321, a member of Fairview American Legion Post 742, a life member and past board member of the Erie Maennerchor Club, former 35 year member of Lake Shore Country Club, a life member of the Times Old Newsies, Dan Rice Tent of Saints and Sinners and the National Rifle Association. He was active for several years as assistant Scout Master of Boy Scout Troop 143 of Fairview.

He enjoyed golfing and duckpin bowling. He was a Pittsburgh Steeler fan and an avid baseball fan, having played sandlot baseball in Pittsburgh for the Lincoln Place Merchants Club. He was a fan and a season ticket holder for the Erie Seawolves. His hobby was collecting antique toys.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 W. 26th Street (at Powell Ave) on Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. and are invited to a service on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at Wayside Presbyterian Church 1208 Asbury Rd, Erie, Pa 16505 with Rev. James H. Haas officiating. Burial to follow in Erie County Memorial Gardens Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Memorials may be made to Wayside Presbyterian Church.