June 24, 1949 - October 27, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
It is with extreme sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Phillips at the age of 74 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. To cherish his many memories, John leaves behind his loving wife, Lynn, of 50 years, his son Bill, daughters Genneine (Scott), Tamara (Wayne) his grandchildren Kaleb, Danica, Emily, and Sophia, his sister Anita (Wilbur), Aunt Dorothy Phillips, brother-in-law, Earl Grewcock and many nieces and nephews.
John is predeceased by his parents Don and Nana Phillips and his sister, Doreen Grewcock.
John was born in Rossland, BC, and raised in Castlegar where he grew up on his parents' farm where they mostly raised turkeys. John worked at Celgar Pulp Mill for 40 plus years. He was a machinist by trade and then he continued as a Machine Room Operator until retirement. He was also a Union Shop Steward that would encompass his mediation skills. He was on the PPWC National Board for Job Evaluations, Mediator and Arbitration.
John's community involvement included coaching Minor Hockey, Rebels Junior Hockey and Castlegar Slow-pitch. He was on the Executive for Castlegar Curling Club, Sunfest and the Fall Fair. John's passion project was that of the Pass Creek Gospel Music Festival. John had a strong faith and loved music and enjoyed putting on his festival every summer at the Pass Creek Park.
John enjoyed travelling with his wife, Lynn, to Europe, Hawaii and Mexico. He then enjoyed travelling locally in their motor home and it wasn't long before he became president of the Good Sam Club.
John was a family man and the family highlights included family dinners, family gatherings and beach camping trips to Christina Lake.
Our family would like to acknowledge a special appreciation to Dr. Nicholas Sparrow and his team from (KERPA) for their professional services as well as all the EMT and first responders.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.