Harry "Hank" Gerald Irving

Harry "Hank" Gerald Irving of Greenbelt, Maryland, passed away in his home on Sunday, March 3rd, 2024. Born on January 4th, 1945, in Mt. Rainier, MD, Hank's life’s journey was one of dedication, service, and love.

During his formative years, Hank attended St. Ambrose Catholic Elementary School, followed by Bladensburg High School and St. John’s College High School, where he was on the varsity football and wrestling teams. He was a dedicated member of the JROTC. Following graduation he enlisted in the Army, eventually becoming a drill sergeant during the Vietnam era, where he dedicated himself to training and mentoring other young soldiers.

Upon his return from service, Hank earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Recreation and Parks Administration from the University of Maryland, College Park. The field which would  become his life’s work. During those summers away from school he enjoyed serving as a part-time police officer in Ocean City.

It was at the University of Maryland where Hank found the love of his life, and wife of 45 years, Maureen “Moe”. They were married on February 26 th, 1976, and in 1978 they welcomed identical twin daughters Christy and Kelly.

Hank’s 38 years of service as Director of the Greenbelt Recreation Department began in 1971, and he left an impression on the Community that would never be forgotten. His tireless efforts led to numerous additions and improvements to the city's recreational facilities and programs, including the development of the Indoor Aquatic and Fitness Center, Schrom Hills Park, the Springhill Lake  Recreation Center, the Skate Park, the Community Center and much more. His efforts along with his unwavering support and mentorship of his staff earned him the admiration of his beloved work family for 38 years. He was also an active member of both the Maryland and National Recreation and Parks Associations throughout his career.

Hank took delight in bringing laughter to family and friends with his jokes and silly gags. He loved annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade celebrations and shenanigans, summers eating crabs, vacations on Cape Cod with Moe’s family who he held dear and taking weekend trips with his wife and daughters. He enjoyed British TV, old movies, University of Maryland Football and the Washington Redskins. He was a lifetime member of the Greenbelt American Legion where he and Moe enjoyed many Labor Day and 4 th of July celebrations.

But Hank’s greatest joy in life was playing golf alongside his wife Moe. They took up the sport later in life and fell in love with it immediately. Hank often tried to figure out a way to outscore Moe who had a natural gift for the game, but he rarely was able. And that was more than alright with him.

Hank’s legacy of dedication, service, and love will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

In his passing, Hank is reunited with his beloved Maureen and departed loved ones, including his parents Emily and Henry Irving his sister Patricia Wildman (Ted), and brother Timothy Irving (Linda). He is survived by his daughters, Kelly Irving and Christy Irving (Jason), his brothers Michael Irving (Pinky) and Kerry Irving (Chris) and sister Teri Knott (Dan), as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services are being arranged at Holy Trinity Church in Cape Cod, MA, with a local Celebration of Life planned for Hank in the future.