Daniel Patrick Phillips

Daniel Patrick Phillips, 62, went to be with the Lord on June 24, 2024, after battling cancer for four years. He passed away at Geisinger Medical Center surrounded by his family. Dan lived in Bloomsburg, PA, and he grew up in Havertown, PA. 

Dan was born on January 30, 1962, in Philadelphia, PA to his parents—the late Dr. William Phillips and Joan Marie (Robinson) Phillips. Dan was one of seven children. Dan married his wife, Janice (Kirby) Phillips, on March 22, 1986, and they celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary this year.

Dan was a family man and a friend to everyone that he met. He had two daughters who he adored, and four grandchildren. He was always there for his family and friends. He never missed a game, recital, or gathering. And Dan knew how to fix just about anything. Even while he was sick, he spent his time fixing and renovating his girls’ houses, serving his family, and caring for his grandchildren who dearly love him. He loved doing things for others. He took his family on many memorable vacations, which he enjoyed planning. And he prepared and hosted many elaborate parties, outings, and events for his family and friends. 

Dan’s faith was vital to him. Despite his cancer, he trusted and relied on God. Dan made time with God a daily focal point, and he treasured his Jesus Calling book and prayer time. His grandchildren loved to sit on his lap for Bible time with Papi. He was a parishioner of St. Columba Catholic Church for many years. At St. Columba, he was a Knights of Columbus member, and he played in the volleyball and softball leagues. 

Dan graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School in Upper Darby and then studied hotel and restaurant management at Delaware County Community College.

In his professional career, Dan served in the hospitality industry. He was the director of dietary and nutritional services at Berwick Hospital Center until he retired in 2021. He started his career at Marriott in Philadelphia. Dan also worked at Bloomsburg University and for over 20 years at Susquehanna University. In addition to his service and food, Dan was known for carving unique ice sculptures. 

Dan also had many hobbies. He was an avid golfer, and he played in golf leagues at the Links, Rolling Pines, and Berwick Country Club. Dan was a passionate Philadelphia sports fan, and he enjoyed surf fishing.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, Janice, are his two daughters:  Shannon L. Hutchison and her husband, Blaine, of Montclair, VA; and Andrea M. Aucker and her husband, Zachary, of Bloomsburg. He was also beloved Papi to his four grandchildren with one on the way in July:  Sierra, Cora, Caleb and Murphy.  

His surviving siblings are:  William Phillips (Lynne); Maureen Mattis Newnam (Joseph); Michelle McGovern (Dr. B. Richard); Anne Murphy (Gerard); Christopher Phillips (Ellen) and Marie Miller (Stephen). Dan is also survived by his mother-in-law, Jane Kirby, and Janice’s siblings:  Patrick Kirby; Susan McCabe; Kenneth Kirby (Holly); Beth Doyle (Barry); Glenn Kirby (Tami); Maureen Rich (Dave); and Sandra Kirby (Phil). Dan is also loved by many nieces and nephews on both sides. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday, July 1, 2024, at 12 Noon at Shiloh Bible Church, Almedia. Rev. Dr. Douglas H. Lyon is officiating. The Family will receive visitors downstairs in the Church Family Activity Center from 10:30 until 11:45. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to St. Anastasia School, 3309 West Chester Pike, Newton Square, PA 19073, https://saintannies.org/endowment-fund

The McMichael Funeral Home, Inc., of Benton is honored to serve the Phillips family. For online condolences or additional information, please visit our website:  www.mcmichaelfuneralhome.com

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