Robert W. Gorgas Sr., 68, dedicated volunteer
Robert W. Gorgas Sr., 68, of Langhorne, a dedicated community volunteer and former instructor at the George School in Newtown, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, of cancer at home.
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Robert W. Gorgas Sr., 68, of Langhorne, a dedicated community volunteer and former instructor at the George School in Newtown, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, of cancer at home.
In the 1970s, Mr. Gorgas taught graphic arts, photography, and a seminar in film for the school's English department.
He left the school to pursue a career in advertising, and later joined Amtrak as a sales agent and community volunteer coordinator. He retired after 31 years.
Mr. Gorgas was perhaps best known for his volunteer work. He served as an executive on loan to United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania for eight years. During that time, he managed United Way giving campaigns for KYW radio and TV, Cardinal Health, and others.
He also was the first man to join the board of Girls Inc. and during 12 years of service rose to become its vice president.
He volunteered for MANNA, Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Philadelphia, and the Ronald McDonald House in West Philadelphia.
After retiring, he took a break for several years, then resumed his volunteer efforts in 2010 by joining the board of the Langhorne Council for the Arts.
"This was a perfect match, something local and a group that focused on the arts," which he loved, his family said.
Mr. Gorgas graduated from Overbrook High School and received his bachelor of science degree from Cheyney University. He pursued graduate study in film production at the New School in New York.
Though Mr. Gorgas and his family lived in Langhorne, he was a native Philadelphian. He was very proud to be a descendant of the Gorgas family for which Gorgas Lane and Gorgas Park are named. Gorgas Lane is in West Mount Airy, Gorgas Park in Roxborough.
Mr. Gorgas was a member of the Olde Philadelphia Club, Viri Viginti Club, and Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Hopson Gorgas; son Robert W. Jr.; daughter Lindsay; three granddaughters; a sister; and nieces and nephews.
A viewing at 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, will be followed by an 11 a.m. Mass at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, 6361 Lancaster Ave. Interment will be in West Laurel Hill Cemetery.
610-313-8102