Hugh Phillips

Hugh Kennan Phillips was born on April 14, 1932, in Minneapolis, MN the son of Wendell and Beulah (Wills) Phillips.  He was a typical little boy being mischievous and often getting into trouble.  He attended Robbinsdale High School and was on the wrestling team, competing at State four years, before graduating in 1950.

Hugh served his country in the United States Navy working as a Ham Radio Operator.  He also played in the Navy Band and was a wonderful musician.  He was honorably discharged on December 3, 1954.

Hugh met the love of his life Joanne while they both worked at Land O’ Lakes.  She wasn’t interested at first but finally gave into going on a date and the rest was history.  Hugh & Joanne were united in marriage on November 7, 1959 in Carver, MN.

Hugh began his long career in radio in Medford, WI, and eventually became an instructor at the Brown Institute School of Broadcasting where he taught for more than twenty years.  From 1986 until 2003 he was employed by WJJY in Brainerd and was best known as “Uncle Hugh” on the morning show, before retiring at the age of 71.

Hugh’s love of music continued while living in Brainerd as a member of the Geritol Frolics.  He loved golf and played right up until last summer.

He will be remembered as a humorous man who would make his grandkids laugh continuosly. When he and his brother, Jim would get going they were the Abbott & Costello of the family – making family and friends laugh until their sides hurt.  He was also a kind man who never had anything bad to say (except when the Vikings were playing.)

Hugh died on Saturday, April 20, 2019.  He is survived by his three children: Wendy (Michael) Nies, Kristine (James) Gobel, Kurt (Rita) Phillips; grandchildren: Daniel (Megan) Nies, Angela (Dan) Einerson, Bryce Phillips, Blaine Phillips, Brant Phillips, Cassandra Gobel; great grandchildren: Elsie, Will, Wesley Einerson, Lincoln & Jackson Nies; brother, James (Nancy) Phillips; sister, Jane Chapman.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne; parents and sister, Edith Phillips.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 4:00 – 8:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home.  Memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at the Calvary Lutheran Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.  Military honors are by the American Legion Post #87, VFW Post #936, VVA Post #235, Marine Corps League Post #1409.  Burial will be at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.

Memorials preferred to Calvary Lutheran Church for the purchase of a golf cart for services at Luther Crest Bible Camp to aide the physically disabled people