Mark F. Phillips (July 3, 1947 – May 29, 2017) was born to Arlene F. and Louis L. (Little Louie) Phillips. Mark was determined to lead as normal life as possible despite the limitations placed on him due to Cerebral Palsy. Children’s Rehabilitation Institute in Baltimore, Maryland helped Mark gain physical, occupational and speech skills leading to his graduation from Memorial High School in 1970 and a business degree from Chippewa Valley Technical School. Mark worked out doing his therapy daily…using the parallel bars; climbing stairs with only a spotter to maintain his muscle strength and tone. The dedication to his therapy was second to none. His ultimate goal was to lead an independent normal life. Frank Sinatra was his favorite and he loved to sing along to “My Way”…as that is the way he lived his life.
Mark was passionate and proud being President of Phillips Properties. In addition, he worked tirelessly on behalf of United Cerebral Palsy for the past 40 years, an organization his dad helped bring to West Central Wisconsin in 1952. UCP events near and dear to Mark’s heart were the Weekend with the Starts Telethon, Snow Biz, Last Minute Santa Auction, UCP Hole in One, Win a Harley and the annual UCP Spring Walk a Thon.
In addition to UCP, Mark lovingly supported Sacred Heart Hospital, Chippewa Valley Boy Scouts and many others. Mark will always be remembered for his generosity and big heart.
Survivors include his wife, Tammy; sisters Jan Hasart of Elk Mound; Lisa (Richard) Erickson, Bloomington, MN; Aunt, Betty Schwartz; several nieces and nephews as well as cousins. Special caregivers: Jason, Brooke, Dave, Gene, and Ted. The family would like to thank the sixth floor nursing staff of Sacred Heart Hospital for all their compassion over the years especially these last few weeks, his physicians and others too numerous to mention that touched Mark’s life.
Mark was laid to rest next to his parents at B’nai B’rith Cemetery on Wednesday, May 31, following a graveside service.
Memorials may be directed to United Cerebral Palsy (206 Water Street Eau Claire, WI 54703) or Sacred Heart Hospital (900 W Clairemont AV Eau Claire, WI 54701).
Our prayers are with you all. Mark was a great person and friend. He will be missed by all of us.
God bless.
Thank you Mark for the help you gave to the elderly. Take care family. Take care.
John Gerberich
To the Phillips family,
Sorry for the loss of your brother. Thinking of you during this time. Mark Was a inspiration to many of us that knew him. He Inspired Many people with Cerebral palsy. Thinking of you during this time.
Karen Rude
Mark,
May you rest with God and your family and friends in heaven. You will be missed, your smile, laughter and passion for your family and friends.
You never let any challenge become and obstacle–I appreciate and value the time we were able to spend with you–
I know that your Aunt Andrea and Uncle Irvin are in heaven welcoming you–they like all of us valued to love and strength of family.
Our Love and Prayers are with you all,
Your Cousin–
Erick Hoversholm and Family
I was one of Mark’s classmates and always enjoyed staying at the hotel across from Sacred Heart Hospital, as many times I would find Mark enjoying the music in the lounge. We’d always have a little conversation (with a beer) and would get caught up on our lives. He was Vice-President of the Class of 1970 as well. RIP friend, you will be well taken care of in heaven. Jayne Wanka
I will miss the joy that Mark gave to me every time I saw him. I worked at HSHS for about 10 years and had a good time with Mark whenever I would take him or pick him up from a procedure. We would always find something to laugh about. I would always ask if Ted was bringing me some good food too. My aunt had CP also and was able to live somewhat on her own for awhile so I could really relate to what he wanted. I know he is running and singing in heaven at peace.
Rest in Peace Mark…..you were a wonderful, giving person, helping out with so many projects around Eau Claire. Your family is a very respected and appreciated family. Another new bright star in the sky. Thank You!
Mark was truly an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He loved the Eau Claire area and showed it with his generosity. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his entire family.
We were always amazed by Mark’s perseverance and generosity. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched.
It was with great sadness that I learned that Mark passed. I will always remember seeing him about town, out to dinner or enjoying a ride in the park. Mark was always cheerful and he was such a light for so many others. As a kid, I was really impressed with his determination to live his life out loud and without restraint. Few people would be as dedicated to both living and giving as he. Mark was radiant in heart and spirit. He will be missed. RIP Mark!
We are sorry for the loss of your Brother. Whenever I would see him there would be a smile on his face and he would be engaged in friendly conversation. He did so much for the Eau Claire community and will be greatly missed.
Mary, Katie and Ann Brunner
I’m so sorry for your loss. I know your love one will be missed. But in God word the Bible he tells us about the resurrection found at John 5:28, 29. You have the hope of seeing your loved one again again, look forward to this wonderful promise of the.
Mark touched our lives when he was a student at the Campus School. He touched the lives of many by supporting the labyrinth in Phoenix Park. May the family be comforted in their grief by knowing of the community’s deep love and respect for him.
JoAnn and Joel Klink
Ted was mentioned in Marks obituary. I have fond memories of both Mark and Ted! What loving, kind and compassionate souls!
I am so grateful that Mark was able to live a full and accomplished life. God bless his survivors. May you find peace.