Irwin D. McIlwain

Irwin D. McIlwain, beloved husband and father, passed away on May 31, 2025 at Homestead Village in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was born in Kittanning, PA on February 10, 1944 to John and Dorothy Neal McIlwain.

Irv is survived by Jeanne, his wife of 57 years and children Alison Bowser (David), Colin (Nichole) and Gregory (Jessica) as well as his beloved grandchildren Lily, Leyton, Andrew, Alexandra, Abigail and great grandson Leon James. Irv was the third of four brothers, Emmett (deceased), Dennis and David McIlwain.

Irv was a proud graduate of Penn State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He began his career at CNH as a Summer intern. During the following 45 years, working in new design, product development and product improvement, he travelled to nearly all 50 states and several European countries. He retired as a Senior Project Engineer with 26 US patents.

His usually calm, steady and relaxed personality changed dramatically every Fall, when Penn State Football season began. To say he was an avid fan is an understatement, he was maniacal. Attending the Gator Bowl, Orange Bowl (with his daughter) and Rose Bowl (with his sons) were highlights.

Irv was a wonderful husband, a good friend to many and according to his children, “the best dad ever”.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family. Gifts in memory of Irwin D. McIlwain, can be made to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the LGH Women & Babies Hospital by sending a check made payable to the LGH Foundation (In memory of Irwin D. McIlwain, in the memo) and mailed to: The LGH Foundation, 2110 Harrisburg Pike, Suite 205, Lancaster, PA 17601.