Herbert O. Phillips passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at the age of 94. He was born on November 2, 1922, in Stoughton, Wisconsin to Fredrick and Ruby Phillips.
Herb graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1948. He was a WWII veteran that served in the Philippines and Japan. He also served in the Wisconsin National Guard from 1949-1963, retiring with the rank of Major. He was a long time resident of Janesville, Wisconsin before moving to Gainesville. He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, Gainesville. Herb was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 40 years, Mildred Phillips; his wife of 14 years, Helen Meerman Phillips, and his stepson Rod (Janet) Meerman.
Herb is survived by his devoted wife of 17 years, Ann B. Phillips. He is further survived by his three daughters: Andrea (Robert) Rietmann, Melanie (George) Frederick, Dana Phillips (Brad McCue); his stepchildren: Kathy Ingman (Tim) Fletcher, Marian Ingman (Don) Close, Hal (Lynette) Ingman, Robert (Desiree) Ingman, Kathy Meerman (Oliver) Carr, Beth Meerman (Jose’) Santos, Steve Meerman; 25 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, as well as numerous family members and friends. Herb will be remembered for his lifelong love of the Wisconsin Badgers and the Chicago Cubs, who gave him the best present ever by winning the World Series on his 94th birthday! In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St., Gainesville, Florida 32601, for the Helping Hands Clinic. Funeral services will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Gainesville on Monday, December 19, 2016 at 10:00 am.
