Phillip Family: March 2015

In Memory ~ Leo Phillip

“Leo,” “Dad,” and “Granddad”: Leo Lane Phillip, age 90, was surrounded by his family when he died Wednesday morning, March 11, 2015. He was born into an extended family that included brothers, aunts and uncles, and cousins. He was the youngest of four brothers; son of Alma (Vifquain) and Willie Phillip.

Leo was born in Springview, July 4, 1924 (all his life Americans celebrated his birthday). He graduated from Alliance High School in 1942, and joined the U.S. Navy in 1943. He saw action in European and Pacific theatres, aboard the U.S.S. Tulagi and was awarded numerous service ribbons, including the Philippine Liberation Star. He was discharged in 1945.

On Dec. 15, 1946, he married Zetta B. Lawler. They were married 62 years, until her death in 2009.

Leo’s working life was with Kembel Sand and Gravel, where he was a Bookkeeper and Dispatcher; Cawley’s Tater-Flakes, where he was Personnel and Office Manager; Metropolitan Life Insurance where he was a Salesman; and A.H. Jones Company of Alliance, where he was Parts Manager.

Leo was noted for his woodworking skills. He built furniture that is still in use today. He won awards at the County Fair for his pieces. In partnership with Zetta, who was a painter, they created decorative pieces that are prized by friends and family.

Throughout his life being with family was important to him. Gathering around the dining room table for board games or cards with children, grandchildren, and friends was a regular occurrence.

A life-long member of the Elks he enjoyed treating his family to Friday night dinners at the lodge. For over fifty years he was a member of the loan committee for Panhandle Co-op Credit Union. All his life he regularly donated blood. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church in Scottsbluff, and later the Federated Church in Mitchell.

In 2010, he met Eva Lindsey, who became his new dancing partner. Together they spent time enjoying life, their families and friends.

Leo is survived by his children: Lynelle Gramm of Lake Geneva, Wis., Steven Phillip of Lincoln, Julie Phillip of Redlands, Calif., and Dean Phillip of Lincoln; and daughters-in-law Becky (Dean) Phillip of Lincoln, and Kathy Phillip of Lincoln. His grandchildren are Devin, Jerrod, Sarah, Elizabeth, Andrew, Daniel, and Stephanie. His great grandchildren are: Isaac, Briley, Kobe, Kyrie, Theo, Jadon, and Jonah. Brother Robert Phillip lives in Hermosa, S.D.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents and two of his brothers: Kenneth Phillip and Jean Phillip.

A memorial service and celebration of life is planned for June 6, 2015, at the Federated Church in Mitchell. Further details will be announced at a later date.

Lynelle Gramm spoke at Leo's memorial service.