Russell Eugene Phillips, 91, of Battle Creek, MI, went to be with the lord on Sun, Dec 7, 2014 at home. He was born on Nov 23, 1933, the son of Claude Raymond Phillips and Mary Rose (McGee) Phillips. He served in the US Army where he was stationed in Fort Benning Georgia. Russell worked at Clark Equipment for many years until retiring 1983. He also worked at Smitty’s Sports shop for 20+ years. He was very instrumental and a part of the Fort Custer Training Center, a hunting program for the hunters with disabilities and youth hunts.
Russell is survived by his wife of 61 years – Betty (Powers) Phillips: five sons, Jim Phillips, Russ Phillips Jr, Mike (Kelli) Phillips, Tony Phillips, Terry Phillips; daughter, Sheri (John) Heffron; grandchildren, Johnny, Michelle, Tyler, Steven, Brian, Heather, Zack; seven great grandchildren; two sisters, Betty Hicks and Joann White. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister, Ella Mae Malik.
Russell was passionate about hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He loved his family and his grandkids. He was adamant about Sunday lunch with the family. Russ was full of life and told big stories of his fishing and hunting experiences. Russ loved watching sports and even played for Clark Equipment Softball Team.
Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Rd, on Wed, Dec 10 from 2 to 4pm and 6 to 8 pm.
A funeral service will be held at Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service on Thu, Dec 11 at 12pm with Jeff Davis officiating. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery.
Memorial tributes may be made to Fort Custer Group Leaders (Hunting Programs).