Philip Michael Samotus, 70, of Fayetteville, PA, and formerly of Shaler Township, PA, passed away on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, at the Chambersburg Hospital. Born May 3, 1956 in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the son of the late Philip Walter Samotus and Margaret A. Kacmar Samotus.
Philip was a 1974 graduate of Shaler Area Senior High School. He then earned a degree in surveying from Edinboro University. Philip was employed as a land surveyor with Ed Tanner and Associates and later Gibson Thomas Engineers until his retirement in 2018. A talented athlete, Philip participated in high school track and field, played adult league softball on several Pittsburgh area teams and also enjoyed coaching his son’s sports teams. He enjoyed kayaking, fishing, gardening, following all the Pittsburgh professional and college sports teams, and spending time with his family. Philip was known for his joyful spirit and will be remembered for his positive approach to life.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marolyn Young Samotus, whom he married in 1988; son, Philip J. Samotus and wife Caitlin of Fayetteville, PA, grandson, Carter Samotus; two sisters, Phyllis Sharkady and husband John of Shaler Township, PA, and Sandy Schneider Samotus of IL; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, September 11, 2026, in the chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, PA. Rev. Dr. A. Robert Cook will officiate. The family will receive friends from 2:00 – 3:00 PM on Friday at the funeral home. Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA. Condolences and memories may be shared at geiselfuneralhome.com.
