Irwin S. Tolins, 92, of Harrisburg, passed away peacefully on Monday March 30, 2020 at The Jewish Home of Greater Harrisburg. 

Born August 22, 1927, in Philadelphia, he was a son of the late Israel and Ida (Dickstein) Tolins.  Irwin served his country during World War II and received an Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Navy.  He later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from City College of New York.  A chance encounter at a dance led to what would become a devoted and inseparable union with Constance “Connie” (Savage) Tolins.  Irwin and Connie continued to dance together until her passing on January 13, 2018.

For most of his working life, Irwin was an Engineer and Analyst with the United States Department of Defense.  An avid collector of books, who enjoyed reading old tales, he also was passionate about the game of chess.  Irwin appreciated the strategy of the game and studied both the moves as well as the great chess players of the past.  Irwin started playing chess in his youth and shared his love of the game with his brothers, Alfred and Paul.  Through the years it created a unique connection among them and deepened their bond as brothers.                    

Irwin is survived by his brother, Paul Tolins and wife, Edith; sister-in-law, Marjorie Tolins; and his nieces, Amy, Rachel, Ilana and Shira, and their families.  In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Alfred Tolins, and a niece, Victoria Tolins Wilson.  

A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family, with Rabbi Eric Cytryn, officiating.  Interment will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.  

Those wishing to honor his memory may consider a memorial contribution to WITF Public Radio at witf.org.