Robert W. Shockley, 84, car dealership owner
Robert W. Shockley, 84, of Springfield, Delaware County, a former car-dealership owner, died Tuesday, Sept. 22, of Parkinson's disease at his home.
Robert W. Shockley, 84, of Springfield, Delaware County, a former car-dealership owner, died Tuesday, Sept. 22, of Parkinson's disease at his home.
The son of Raymond Purnell Shockley Sr. and Helen Davis Shockley, he was born and reared in Darby. He lived in Springfield before moving to Newtown Square last year.
As a teenager, he broke many pitching records while playing baseball for Darby High School and was especially proud of his no-hitters. He was elected senior class president and voted best dancer and "Mr. All-Around Personality."
His love of sports never faded. Later, when he was married and had a family, neighborhood children would knock on his door and ask if "Mr. Shockley could come out to play," his children said in a tribute.
He created a pint-size baseball diamond for the littlest ones. When they rounded the bases, he would be standing at home plate and "miss" the balls that were thrown to him, his family said.
The Phillies scouted him in 1949, but instead he joined the Navy and served as a signalman aboard the USS Belle Grove during the Korean War.
Mr. Shockley worked as a car salesman for many years before assuming ownership of Shockley Motors Inc., a car dealership in Devon, in 1975. The business sold Volkswagens and later Oldsmobiles. He retired in 1997.
Mr. Shockley worked hard to make a better life for his family. "He had a strong handshake and a smile to go along with that handshake," his family said.
An ardent patriot, he instilled that allegiance in his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed music, gardening, and following the Phillies and the Eagles.
Mr. Shockley was married to Doris Sage Shockley, who died in 1995.
He is survived by his wife, Adeline Valerio Shockley; daughters Denise Santella, Kim Fink, Sandra Eckberg, Karin Copeland, Barbara Small, and Christine Valerio; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; a sister; and many nieces and nephews. Three brothers died earlier.
A viewing at 10 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 1, is to be followed by a noon funeral, both at the First Presbyterian Church, 356 Summit Rd., Springfield, Pa., 19064. Burial is in Arlington Cemetery, Drexel Hill.
Donations may be made to the Deacon's Fund, in care of the church at the address above.
610-313-8102