Mr. Donald Leroy Philp

Donald Leroy Philp (75) of Cocoa, took his final breath at Cape Canaveral Hospital on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 2:31 AM. He was surrounded by his “harem”, his beloved granddaughters, his eldest daughter and his soul mate and wife of 33 years, Sandy. Born on April 16, 1949 in Dotters Corner, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Martin and Ella (Getz) Philp. He spent most of his childhood among family in the Allentown and Pocono areas of Pennsylvania before relocating to Laural, Maryland. He was a 1967 graduate of Glenelg High School. Donald was a proud Army Veteran having served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War. After serving his county, Don spent the next four decades working in the Aerospace Industry, supporting the space program, in both Washington DC and at the Kennedy Space Center. He retired in 2011 from ASRC as Director of Information and Technology. During his younger years, Don was an avid HAM Radio Operator. He could be found every Saturday night at his local speedway, racing cars and eventually working with Racing Radio. He was an outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing, and especially loved being in the mountains and on the water. Don could fix anything, from your basic household appliance to refurbishing classic cars, he was the guy you called when you needed help. His pulled pork was legendary and he was known as “King of the Grill” at many a picnic at KARS park. Don and Sandy enjoyed watching NASCAR, motorcycle riding, RVing, going out to eat with friends and attending their granddaughter’s various activities, they were his pride and joy. Don, or Scapulchapeck as he would often introduce himself, made a friend out of almost everyone he came across. Colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends, not only respected his professionalism and work ethic but enjoyed his sense of humor. He was a favorite patron at many local Space Coast restaurants, where staff enjoyed joking with him. He came from an enormous family with 51 first cousins, several who he maintained a special bond with that was so much more than extended family. Don is survived by his wife and best friend, Sandra (Gonzalez), Daughters Erin Philp Harris of Rockledge and Meredith Philp (Patrick Alves) of Dublin, PA, Granddaughters Katrina and Emily Sallustio of Rockledge, Sister and Brother-in-law Connie and Charlie Schwarz of Pea Ridge, AR, and nephew Charles “Chip” Schwarz of Ajo, AZ. Donald will also be remembered by many honorary children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as as “PopPop” or “Papa Bear”; as well as many cousins, and countless dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Martin and Ella Philp and mother-in-law Janice Gonzalez. A celebration of life will be held in Brevard County at a later time yet to be determined. Memorial donations may be made to Heroes United to Heal Foundation to support Veteran’s and First responders struggling with PTSD. Donations can be made online at Heroes United to Heal Foundation (HU2H) - Heroes United To Heal (square.site). Please note “In Memory of Don Philp” in the notes of the checkout page or on the memo line if paying by check. Checks can be mailed to Heroes United to Heal, 3000 Murrell Road, Number 560325, Rockledge , FL, 32956.

Mr. Donald Leroy Philp

April 16, 1949 - August 25, 2024

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Mr. Donald Leroy Philp

April 16, 1949 - August 25, 2024

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information