Phillip Lawrence Wightman, 81 of Fennville, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, August 7, 2022, at his home. Born February 1, 1941, in Douglas, Michigan, he was the son of the late Chester and Hilda (Stein) Wightman and the husband of Fae Ann (Christensen) Wightman.
Phil was a hard worker who owned and operated his own plumbing company, Wightman Service Plumbing along with working for the State Department of Corrections as their plumber.
He spent many years opening and closing cottages along the lakeshore, finally retiring (for real) at the age of 79. Phil was very involved in his community and was a member of the Fennville Rod and Gun Club and the SNO-Gooders, serving several years on both of their boards. He was also a charter member of Douglas Community Church and the North Point Motor Lodge (DBA the Deer Shack).
Phil was a loving and caring father and thoroughly enjoyed being involved in his children’s lives. He was a wonderful role model who instilled ethical and moral values into their lives. Another of his greatest joys was spending time outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, Phil was always happy when able to spend time afield or afloat. It was often in these places that he galvanized his most meaningful relationships with friends and family members. He especially loved the many opportunities he had to share his love of nature with youth, teaching and mentoring the next generation about the stewardship of nature.
Phil is survived by his children, Rondi Wightman and husband, Greg Stinson, Jodi (Loren) Curtis, and Wendi Wightman and husband, Brian Newton; one granddaughter, Sierra Newton; two great-grandchildren, Harper and Allrianne Goodale-Newton; two sisters, Carolyn Gilman and Doris (George) Peltier; one sister-in-law, Judith Wightman; his best buddy, Barney; nieces and nephews and many, many close friends.
Along with his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Lucile (Keith) VanKoevering, Francis (Milton) Strand; and Dale Wightman; and his brother-in-law, James Gilman.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, August 14, 2022, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at A-Cut Above Event Center located at 6080 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck, MI 49453. Donations in Phil’s memory can be made to Salmon in the Classroom Initiative and sent to John Watson, 1137 22nd Street, Otsego, MI 49089. Chappell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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