John Phillips, 67
John Phillips of Spokane, Wash., passed away Friday, Sept. 2, 2016, in his home.
He was born May 19, 1949, in Sandpoint, Idaho, to Harry and Margaret (Kalk) Phillips, who have preceded him in death.
Following graduation from Sandpoint High School, he served honorably in the U.S. Army as a Huey helicopter crew chief I in Vietnam. During this time he began lifelong commitments to three passions; his family, aviation and firefighting.
He married his high-school sweetheart, Carla Berger, in December 1969. Family life had always been paramount and together they raised two children, Brenda Molano, now married to Joe in Yakima, and Adam Phillips, wed to Jenny in Spokane. He was blessed with seven grandchildren: Sydney, Jacob, Shyiel, Kyla, Kelsey, Ashlyn, and Adyson; and a great-granddaughter, Dakota.
Having perfected is aviation skills in combat, he returned to Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Wash., completing degrees in education and aerospace.
Working as an aircraft mechanic with Nolon Decoto Flying Service over 20 years rewarded him with the position of manager and a cohort of fantastic friends in Yakima. A move to Spokane led to another 20-year stint managing aviation with the FAA as a flight standards official and then as supervisor, retiring two years ago. Intertwined with this was a love of rebuilding old airplanes (an Aeronca, SuperCub, and a Stearman) and his stable of seasoned John Deere tractors.
Firefighting began with youthful vigor on a hotshot crew fighting wildfires in his early 20s, but carried through dedicated service with the Gleed volunteer fire department (20 years) and 17 years with Fire District 9, Station 94, on Orchard Prairie, Spokane.
In all of this, his deeply held need to educate and train younger people sharing his passions had become an enduring trait.
He is survived by his wife and children; two brothers, Bill (Nancy) and Mike; and a sister, Mary Margaret (Stan).
A celebration of his life will be shared on Oct. 15, 2016, beginning at 2 p.m. in the Moody Aviation facilities at Felts Field, Building 68, 6719 E Rutter Ave.
His family suggest Hospice of Spokane or the charity of your choice should memorials be desired.