Philip Lee Preston, 88, of St. Joseph, MI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Monday, May 27, 2024 in Mattawan, MI. He was born June 26, 1935 in Coshocton, Ohio to Sylvia and William Preston.
Philip and his family moved to Caro, MI in the early 1950’s, where Philip worked alongside his father in the Preston retail department store. Philip also faithfully served in the Navy reserves for eight years, alongside his best friend, Chuck Spaulding. Philip married his wife, Delrene, and soon moved to Paw Paw, MI, where he opened their store, Ben Franklin. He operated the store for over 30 years and loved his wonderful customers, friends, and the people of the Paw Paw community. Phil and Delrene had five children; Laurie (Sam), Tammy, Linda, Mark and Jana (Matt), who all worked in the store with their parents. Philip was also the president of the Lakeview hospital board for many years and was on the committee that built the Paw Paw United Methodist Church.
Philip later married Kathleen Monte, who had three children; Shawn (John), Richard (Rosie) and Maureen (Tom). They moved to St. Joseph, MI where they played tennis, traveled, sailed and were members of the Saron Lutheran Church. Phil had many grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom he cared about and spoke of often. He cared for Kathleen so lovingly and faithfully during her last three years as she struggled with health issues. Philip moved to Mattawan, MI after Kathleen had passed to live with his youngest daughter, Jana and her husband, Matt.
Phil loved flying, fishing, golf, sailing, and tennis and had many adventures in his lifetime pursuing these interests. He was a lifelong Lions football fan and also loved watching hockey and baseball. Phil had a zest for life; you could catch him whistling, often up to something fun, always with a grin. He was humorous, kind, sweet and gentle, with a laugh one couldn’t forget. He loved everyone; and he is already so dearly missed by those who love him.
The family will be handling arrangements privately, entrusted to the care of Newell Chapel, Decatur, 269-423-2561. Those wishing to leave an online condolence for the family may do so at www.newellchapel.com.
