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).