Phillip Edward Dussia passed away peacefully on Dec. 17, 2019.
Phil was born on July 19, 1940, in Plainwell and was the oldest son of Bernard and Verna (Darrow) Dussia. Five years later, Phil was joined by his brother, John Charles.
Phil displayed skills and determination early, achieving Eagle Scout at an impressive age. He graduated from Plainwell High School in 1958 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Navy.
Upon returning home from the Navy, he met the love of his life on a double date. Phil and Bernice (Davis) Dussia were married on August 4, 1962. The following year, their daughter Deborah Lyn was born. A couple years after, their son John Owen came along. Phil was an extremely proud Dad to Debbie and John and supported any hobby they were interested in, well into their adulthood.
Phil was a machinist and union president at Mead/Rock Tenn for many years. During that time, Phil and Bernice invested wisely in several rental homes. They were able to utilize their investments in later years to open a total of four assisted living homes, where their compassion for others was obvious by the beautiful homes they created for the residents.
Phil had many talents, from singing and playing lead guitar in a band to creating ornate wood carvings and paintings. He also had many hobbies, including watching all sports, especially local, traveling, skiing, and coin collecting. He loved doing anything that involved his family getting together.
Those who knew Phil knew his sense of humor, his ability to spark up a conversation with anyone, and his huge heart.
What he really excelled at was being a grandfather. Ben, Brittany, Brad, and Jase could ask “Gramps” or “Papa Phil” to do just about anything with or for them and he would do it.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents, brother, and a special aunt and uncle.
He is survived by his wife; children Debbie (Jimmy) and John (Casie); his four grandchildren; and great-grandchildren Amon, Amarah, Logan, Allie, Talon, and Ava.
A relaxed gathering of family and friends will take place Friday, Dec. 27, from 1 to 3pm at McCowen Secord Funeral Home in Plainwell, where a sharing of memories will take place at 2:30 p.m. A private burial of ashes will take place on a lovely spring day of the family’s choosing.
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