William Ward Phillips

William Ward Phillips was born in Chicago on October 16, 1938, to Walter and Eva Phillips and was raised in Decatur Michigan.  He married his loving wife Ruth, and they celebrated 59 years this past June.

Throughout his life, Bill served his community by serving in several different capacities in the Masons, Shriners, and both the Portage and Paw Paw Lions Clubs. Bill was the first Paw Paw Lion to become a District Governor.  He was also very proud to hold the award for 50 years of Perfect Attendance with the Lions and was the recipient of The Melvin Jones award twice.

Bill loved model railroading, bowling, and music.  He also coached youth bowling, umpired Little League and served on the board for the Kalamazoo Men’s Bowling Association.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth (Thierjung) Phillips, his son, Fred (Kathy) Phillips, and his daughter, Linda (Jeff) Marcon; three grandchildren, Parker Marcon, Katlyn Phillips-Osborne, and Hannah Marcon; one great grandchild, Lila Sue Osborne, and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Malissa Phillips, and two brothers, Walter Phillips and Robert Gallup.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at RedArrow Ministries, 31133 Red Arrow Hwy., Paw Paw, where a celebration of life will commence at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. G. Ben Bowater IV officiating. There will be a time of food and fellowship at the church immediately following the services. Bill will be placed to rest at Lakeside Cemetery, Decatur.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamazoo Shrine to support Shriners Hospitals for Children at 612 Jenks, Kalamazoo, MI 49006.