Phil Armstrong

Phillip George Armstrong, 69, of Carmel, died January 18^th surrounded by his family. Phil was born October 15, 1948 to Mr. and Mrs. J. George Armstrong in Decatur, Illinois. He married his best friend, Suzanne Lee Gill, on June 12, 1970. In addition to his wife, Phil is survived by his sister, Annilee Shaul of Champaign, Illinois; his children, Justin (Melanie) Armstrong, Andrew Armstrong, and Kathryn (John) Rosebrough; sister-in-law, Pat Bendull-Gill; grandchildren, Arden, Griffin, Alex, Grace, Jessica, and Jenna and many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors who Phil counted as part of his family.

Phil was a successful property manager but his focus was not on work. He enjoyed his spare time to the fullest. Time with his family was always at the top of his list, but he had many hobbies. He could fix just about anything, although not always by the book. He did beautiful woodwork, usually for someone else and sometimes on very short notice. Humidors, cradles, gunstocks, music boxes, and pens, all painstakingly sanded and finished. Nothing less than perfect would do. He was up for any task. All one had to do was ask. And heaven forbid you try to pay him. He enjoyed doing things for others. It made him happy. Phil gave of himself with his whole heart. He did so quietly and without expectations of thanks and praise. From plowing his neighbors’ driveways to counseling someone who had lost their way, Phil was quick to lend a hand.

Another favorite hobby was shooting sporting clays. Saturday mornings at the gun club brought a raucous group of friendly competitors. Over the years, the group and the friendships grew. Phil was a willing and able teacher, including anyone who wanted to give it a try. Even when his grandson started beating him, he enjoyed those Saturdays.

Phil was a funny man with an incredibly kind heart. His large stature and grand presence filled a room. He loved every member of his family. He adored his nieces and nephews. Annalisa, Elizabeth, David, Sam, and Jenni all had a special place in his heart. He was a favorite of his kids’ and even grandkids’ friends. If he fed you, you were family. He was a master of the grill and hosted the very best pool parties. He was also a friend to animals. He loved his dogs and was often seen about town with Izzy by his side. All critters made him smile, especially the babies. He spent time in stifling heat helping to build a new owl enclosure at Providence Wildlife Rehabilitation and often helped with design ideas to make caring for the animals easier.

Phil will be greatly missed but he lived a wonderful life. He wouldn’t want anyone to be sad. He would simply remind us to move forward, “do the next right thing” and be good to each other.

Visitation will be held at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel on Wednesday, January 31^st from 2 to 4 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Providence Wildlife Rehabilitation, 2425 202^nd Street East, Westfield, IN 46074.