Gary Phillis

Gary Alan Phillis, age 75 of Packwaukee passed away Sunday, February 16, 2025 with his wife by his side at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital in Portage. Gary was born on November 21, 1949 to Clyde and Dorothy (Brown) Phillis in Valparaiso, Indiana. He graduated from Chesterton High School in Chesterton, IN as a member of the Class of 1967. Gary excelled in basketball, receiving a scholarship to play at Davidson College. He was united in marriage on May 9, 1970 to Sylvia Bartruff in Chesterton and together they were blessed with four children.

Gary and Sylvia moved to Rockford, Il following employment opportunities and in 1980 permanently made Packwaukee their home. He was a cement mason by trade. Early in Gary’s career he worked for other contractors before starting his own business. He owned and operated Gary Phillis Construction for more than 20 years, proudly working alongside his son, Jeremy. Gary always enjoyed working with his hands and spending time enjoying nature as well as working with and learning from people of all abilities. He was an avid gardener and gladly gave excess produce to those in need. He will be remembered for his generosity and acts of service.

Gary is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sylvia and three children: Jeremy (Kathy) of Westfield, Jake of Packwaukee and Jenna (Nathan) McGwin of Centreville, VA as well as six grandchildren: Grace, Hope, Ayden, Vada, J.J. and Paightyn. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Edna Grimm, niece, Roseann (Gerald) Lyon and nephew, Charlie Grimm.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, son, Jason, future daughter-in-law, Grace Wonrow and siblings: Charles, Shirley, Robert, James and Don.

A memorial service for Gary is being planned for a future date.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com