May 10, 1943 - January 22, 2025
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Phil.
Philip (Phil) Whitmore Jr passed away peacefully at the age of 81, in Chilliwack BC.
Born in Keswick, England. He and his family boarded the Queen Mary in 1948 and came to BC where they resided in Abbotsford.
At the age of 18 Phil had a strong desire to "See the World." He volunteered and was accepted to serve a 4-year term in the US navy on a Fletcher Class Destroyer, stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii with the South Pacific Fleet. He served an additional 6 months during the war, off the coast of Vietnam. A short time later he obtained his discharge paper with the rank of Petty Officer First Class and an Exemplary Conduct Award.
Marrying the love of his life Jean (Cummings) in Oct.1968. A love and friendship that spanned 57years, until his passing. Together raising 4 children in Abbotsford, where they resided until moving to Chilliwack in 2006.
Phil was a devoted husband, father, and family man, among all else. In his own words "My greatest joy in life, was meeting your mom and having her by my side all these years and raising you kids."
At the age of 26 Phil went to work alongside his dad who was acting agent of Esso Imperial Oil Bulk Plant in Abbotsford, where his father was agent from 1956-1977. Learning all aspects of the business over 7 years and with retirement in his dad's future, Phil applied for and was given the position of New Agent. Phil, like his father successfully ran the business, expanding to an additional 2 agencies in Misson and Chilliwack until his retirement in 1999.
Phil had a real love of the outdoors and an appreciation for nature. An avid fisherman for most of his life, a true passion and pleasure of his. He enjoyed countless moments fishing alongside his wife, as well as many lifelong friends, the many lakes, and rivers in BC. Tunkwa, Horse, and Sheridan among his favorites.
His true "Happy Place" was fishing the Thomson River in Spences Bridge, for the world-renowned Steelhead. The many stories he shared over the years, was that of pure joy, excitement, exhaustion, gratitude, and honor to have been so lucky to land one on his line and bring it onto shore. Something he looked forward to every year until the run closed.
His humility sees him remembered as, a quiet, independent, strong man who was a great listener. If you were lucky enough to find yourself in a one-on-one conversation, you would know he had an immense character, full of wisdom and knowledge. He had many dear and lifelong friendships, some spanning over 50 years.
Phil was a private man and not one to be the center of attention. At this time in his life, it would be no different. An intimate celebration of life with family will take place at a later date.
Survived by his wife Jean, daughter Lee-Ann, son Ryan, son in law John (Kish), sister Pat (Hall) 5 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and extended family.
Predeceased by his daughters Brandy and Dana, Parents Phil and Vera, sister Ann, brother Kim, nephews Chris and Jeff.
A message from your kids. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being the most amazing dad we could have ever been gifted with. A thousand times over.... We would choose you! You were such a wonderful nurturer, provider, and present father. Our first love and lifelong hero. Through our eye's dad, you were everything powerful and safe. A dad we could never outgrow our need for, the one true friend, whom we could always rely on. No matter our age, your words, lessons you taught us, bond we shared and love, forever a treasured guide. So grateful for the time we had with you and the profound impact you had in our lives. Your care and protection will forever be a pillar of strength in our lives.
Until we are reunited again
Fly Free and Fish Hard
XOXO
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