Dr. George Latimore Flickinger, Jr.
Dr. George Latimore Flickinger, Jr. of State College, PA, passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, after the passing of his wife of 66 years, Karen Combs Flickinger only 3 months prior. George was born on May 21, 1933 to his parents George, Sr, and Frances Baker in Hanover, PA. He is survived his three daughters, Anne (Paul) Lobb, Dr. Barbara (Marta) Flickinger, and Kristin (David) Michener. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren Sarah and David Lobb, and Hannah (Allie), Madeline, Michaela, Joel and Justin Michener.
George graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 1954 with a Bachelor Degree in Agricultural Science. He went on to the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, to attain his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1958. He then completed his PHD in Pathology (Endocrinology) while working at the Philadelphia Zoo. It was at the University that he met the love of his life. George and Karen were married in 1958 and soon began their life together in West Philadelphia before eventually settling with his family in Abington, PA. George joined the faculty of the University of Pennsylvania Medical School as the head scientist of a research lab in Reproductive Endocrinology. He helped design and then oversaw the In Vitro Fertilization Program for the Obstetrics and Gynecological Department at Penn Medical School. After retiring from the University, Dr. Flickinger and his wife moved to Dallas, Texas where he was the head of the In Vitro Fertilization Program at Dallas Presbyterian Hospital. They then returned to Philadelphia and in retirement George assisted his daughter Dr. Barbara Flickinger in her veterinary practice.
George was a brilliant and unassuming gentleman. He was a Philadelphia sports fan, enjoyed woodworking and was a self-taught artist in his later years. He loved to read and attend educational programs, always furthering his knowledge of varied subjects. In his later years, he and Karen moved to the Villages at Penn State University and enjoyed the company of each other and fellow residents. George and Karen loved to travel but his fondest days were spent at his summer residence in Ocean Pines, Maryland for nearly 40 years, where he tended to his beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. He learned to sail and had many great sailing adventures with family and friends. George’s love for his daughters and grandchildren was always forefront in his life, but his devotion to and love of animals was evident every day. He had many four-legged friends throughout his life, but his dog Chopper was his dearest companion. George will certainly be missed by his family and friends. His legacy of research in reproductive science will live on. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to or your local animal rescue organization or the Philadelphia Zoo. Arrangements handled by Rose Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Leave a Condolence