Philip “Reds” R. Gessner, 87, of Whitehall, died Feb. 20, 2026, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg. He was the wife of Lottie (Ruch) Gessner for 69 years.

Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Albert and Pauline (Diehl) Gessner.

He worked as an automobile and truck mechanic at The Morning Call for 44 years. In addition, he was employed as a school bus driver for Parkland School District for 42 years.

He was a life member of Fullerton Fire Company.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Richard P.; two daughters, Barbara Marinkovits and husband Edward and Bonnie Patrick and husband William; five grandchildren, Jason, Todd with Julie, Chad with Sarah, Adam and Megan with Ralph; four great-grandchildren, Dylan with Sarah, Maggie, McKenna and Asher; a great-great-grandson, Alex; a sister, Pearl Schantz and husband Richard; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Ruth Frack.

There will be a calling time 9-11 a.m., followed by a funeral service 11 a.m., Feb. 26 at the funeral home, 326 E. 21st St., Northampton.

Arrangements were made by Reichel Funeral Home Inc.