Edward A. Schillinger | Psychologist, 62

Edward A. Schillinger, 62, of Lafayette Hill, a clinical psychologist at the Pathway School since 1978, died of pancreatic cancer Saturday at home.

Pathway is a private school in Norristown for youngsters with severe neuropsychiatric disorders and complex learning issues. When Dr. Schillinger received an alumni award for excellence this year from the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology at Widener University, colleagues praised his ability to improve the quality of life for young adults with special needs who felt his calmness and appreciated his availability in times of crisis.

Mr. Schillinger grew up in North Philadelphia and graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School. During the Vietnam War, he was an Army medic in Washington state.

After his discharge, he earned a bachelor's degree from La Salle College, a master's degree in psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and a doctorate from the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology, which was at Hahnemann Medical School. (It moved to Widener in 1989.)

Dr. Schillinger was a former doubles squash champion at the Cynwyd Club in Bala Cynwyd. He enjoyed vacations at the Jersey Shore and road trips with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Joan Savage Schillinger; daughters Rachel and Rebecca; his parents, Edward and Alice; and two brothers.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. tomorrow at Leverington Presbyterian Church, 6301 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, where Dr. Schillinger was a deacon. Friends may call after 10.