Co C, 237 Engr C BN, WWII

s/o David & Daisy (Riegel) Breech

Harry F. Breech
Catawissa man was World War II medic
Published: February 14, 2014
Harry F. "Whig" Breech, 91, long-time resident of Catawissa, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014, at Emeritus at Bloomsburg, where he had been residing for the last four years.

Born in Catawissa on Sept. 24, 1922, he was the son of the late David and Daisy (Reigle) Breech. He graduated from Catawissa High School in 1941. He was an outstanding soccer and basketball player, lettering in both sports.

He served honorably in the U.S. Army during World War II from Jan. 12, 1943, until Nov. 29, 1945. Harry was a medic and earned the Bronze Star. He was assigned to the 442nd regiment engineering division, which built bridges all through Europe. His unit was involved with the invasion of Normandy landing on Utah Beach. He was employed at Catawissa Valve and Fitting after returning from the war and then, for many years, worked at the U.S. Radium Plant, Lime Ridge, until retirement.

He attended Christ United Lutheran Church, Catawissa. He was one on the founding members of the VFW Post 8306, Catawissa. Harry enjoyed whittling and making canes and walking sticks, some of which he used himself during the regular walks he would take.

He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Harry was the last living member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ambrose, Robert, Fred and Ralph; and sisters, Margaret Fowler, Pauline Tyson, Pearl Karnes, Betty Pehowic, Charlotte Stellfox, Patricia Eveland and Nancy Wynings.

Services will be at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery, Catawissa. Arrangements are entrusted to Heller Funeral Home, Nescopeck.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Christ United Lutheran Church, 116 Church St., Catawissa, or First United Methodist Church, 228 South St., Catawissa, PA 17820.