May 10, 1931 — Dec. 17, 2018

Vernon B. “Vern” Phillips, 87, of Dowagiac, passed away on Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, at his home.

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, at Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac, with Larry Brewer officiating. Burial will follow at South Wayne Cemetery in Dowagiac.

Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions in Vern’s name may be made to the Cass County Animal Shelter. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at clarkch.com.

Vern was born May 10, 1931, in Eau Claire, to AC and Wilma Viola (Lloyd) Phillips.

He left school at a young age to help work on his family farm.

On Sept. 27, 1953, he married Phyllis Grindel in Dowagiac.

Vern worked for Sundstrand in Dowagiac for 34 years before retirement. He enjoyed fishing and being outdoors. Vern loved to garden and took pride in his work. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Vern is survived by his children, Vern (Elizabeth) Phillips, Cindy Phillips, Gene Phillips and Susan Judd; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Phyllis; son, James Phillips; grandson, Vernon Lee Phillips and brother Raymond Phillips.