Duane Michael Phillips

Duane Michael Phillips, 41, passed away in the early hours of May 17th, 2024 after a short hospital stay, surrounded by his loved ones and listening to good music.

The youngest of four children, born on December 2, 1982 to Connie and Russ Phillips, Duane (also referred to as Wayne, Dewey, D, and sometimes even Joe) grew up in a small country community on the outskirts of Evansville, Wisconsin. He really enjoyed, among other things, reading and writing, making short films with his brother and the neighborhood kids, and convincing the same neighborhood kids to do their chores for them so he and his brother would be free to play. The two of them were early go-getters and had a short-lived but successful run at selling candy to other kids on the school bus. He liked to play soccer and was part of the inception of the boys’ soccer program at Evansville High School.

Always curious and eager to learn more, about everything, he dedicated much of his young adulthood to adventure. He traveled around the country, sometimes on foot and by thumb, meeting many interesting individuals and trying countless new things. He dabbled in everything from cooking in restaurants to working in a cemetery/mortuary, and even tried his hand at homesteading in upstate New York for a short time. He took something from each experience, whether it was a lesson or a new friend.

During a trip home several years ago, he stayed to help care for his father with Alzheimer’s and after his passing, remained with his mom, Connie.

After a youth spent adventuring, his recent years were spent more quietly. He enjoyed cooking for his family and friends (and he was a fantastic cook), road trips, kayaking, camping, working in his yard, and always, reading. His book collection was truly impressive. He was incredibly fond of his cat, Bandit (who really only ever answered to “Kitty” and barely tolerated anyone besides Duane).

He cared deeply about others, had a fantastic sense of humor, a contagious “crinkly-eyed” smile, and gave the best hugs. His faith was unmatched. His ability and commitment to go his own way was one of the most admirable, and sometimes frustrating, things about him. He probably would have hated this obituary because he didn’t like anyone speaking for him.

He’s survived by his mother, Connie; his siblings: Daphnie Phillips, Denice (Jeromy) Raatz, and Daniel (Holly) Phillips; nieces and nephews: Samantha and Mason Raatz, and Delilah and Sawyer Phillips; his best friend Cori (Krysa McCain) VanGalder, their daughter Taylor and grandson Carter - who was known to his “Gruncle”, as in Grumpy Uncle Wayne, as Bean.

Duane was preceded in death by his father, Russ; his nephew Phillip; and his grandparents: William and Charlene Fiedler, Charles and Lorraine Phillips, and Eleanor Drake.

He will be greatly missed, but those closest to him know that he will meet his next adventure head-on and with a ton of enthusiasm.

“To die will be an awfully big adventure.”

Per his wishes, there will not be a memorial service. Please instead take a moment to step outside, enjoy nature as Duane always did, and think of a happy memory of him. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and support they’ve received.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.

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