Obituary of Philip J. Eitzen

Eitzen, Philip J. passed away on Friday, August 12, 2016. He was a resident of Springton Lake Village in Media, PA. Born on October 13, 1928 in Abington, PA, a son of the late Henry and Wilhemine (Schloen) Eitzen, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Claire, his brother Robert, and his sisters Helen, Ruth and Carolyn. He was a longtime member and supporter of The Main Line Unitarian Church where he served on the Board of Trustees and the Memorial garden committee. Phil proudly served in the U.S. Army. He graduated as a graphics design major in 1952 from Philadelphia College of Art (now University of the Arts), where he served on the Board of Trustees for over 16 years, received the Silver Star Award and was a past president of the PCA Alumni Board. He began his professional career at N.W. Ayer & Son, Inc., the nation's oldest and then largest advertising agency, where he was appointed Vice President and head of the Art Department in 1963. In 1971 he formed his own agency, The Creative Department, Inc., in Philadelphia with Charles Mackey. A founder of the Philadelphia chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts, his work as a designer, art director and creative director received national recognition. Phil would be the first to say that he lived a rich and rewarding life, both professionally and personally. Before and after his well-earned retirement he loved to garden, prepare gourmet meals, listen to jazz and travel. Phil is survived by his brother Bruce (Judy) Eitzen of North Wales; sister Patricia (Peter) Binnion of West Chester; daughters Claudia Siers of Downingtown, Barbara (Brian) Clift of North Wales, Pamela Eitzen (Christopher O'Brien) of Narberth; and grandchildren Timothy O'Brien, Claire O'Brien and Rebecca Clift. A private Memorial Service will be held at the Main Line Unitarian Church at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to artzphilly.org