I meant to post this last week but didn’t have a chance. I was honoured to write his obituary. Miss you always Captain Stevie!
PHILLIPS, Steve – On Thursday, September 30, 2010 – The curtains fell and the lights dimmed on the wonderful life of Stephen Phillips. Steve passed away peacefully at home in Union, at the age of 45. He was a man who defined the true meaning of ‘Living life to the fullest’, whether it was his outgoing personality exploding on the stage in song, or his laid-back chillin, as he cruised the lake in his boat – no shirt, flip flops, and a pair of designer shades. That’s just the type of guy Steve was. He had charisma, the type of person who would welcome you with a genuine smile and an ice-cold beer, especially if you shared his love of the Montreal Canadiens or the Washington Redskins.
As the lead singer for several different bands, such as ‘Justice Priest’ and ‘Damn Pigeon’, Steve was a warrior on the stage. Ripping through the lyrics with power and energy, he put every ounce of his soul into each rock and roll performance. Faced with the devastating diagnosis of cancer, Steve donned his battle gear, reminding himself, ‘it isn’t how many times the warrior gets knocked down . . . it’s how many times he gets back up’. Steve faced the struggle with vigor and tenacity, never backing down from the endless challenges the disease threw his way. He fought for his wife, his children, his family, his friends, and his future. And while he didn’t get the chance to do that final victory dance, his strength gave us the courage to always keep the hope alive.
Steve started working for Mackies at the tender age of 12, helping Grandpa Phillips pick up the garbage from the beach in Port Stanley. From there, he graduated into master orangeade maker and fervent protector of the Mackies secret sauce recipe, continuing the task until May 2009. He was forever proud to wear the Mackies blue and orange. A beloved member of the community, Steve had the privilege of giving many different people the keys to their new homes. He took pride in his work as a Real Estate Agent, and went out of his way to ensure his clients had complete satisfaction.
So farewell dear Steve. But know, this is not goodbye. Your spirit lives forever in our hearts, minds, and our souls. Thank you for your love, your kindness, and your laughter. You were a life force that couldn’t be denied. Thank you for being you. You will never be forgotten . . .
Steve was the much loved husband of Kathy (Quick) Phillips and dearly loved father of Emily and Nick. Dear son of Christina Phillips of St. Thomas and Mike Phillips (Demi) of British Columbia, and loved brother of Sondra Gantner of PEI, and brother Jed Phillips of BC. Dear son-in-law of Wayne and Joanne Quick of Port Stanley, and dear brother-in-law of Sandi Quick and Victoria Phillips. Sadly missed by a number of aunts, uncles and cousins. The family will receive friends at WILLIAMS FUNERAL HOME 45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas on Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A service to celebrate Steve’s life will be held at Knox Presbyterian Church, Hincks Street, St. Thomas on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Cremation has taken place with entombment of ashes to follow the service, in Union Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to the London Regional Cancer Clinic.
Published: Oct 2, 2010 London Free Pree, St. Thomas Times Journal
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