On Monday, January 10, 2022, Phillip Eugene Garrison, loving husband, father, and friend suddenly passed away at the age of 77. Phil was born on August 16, 1944 in Jackson, Michigan to Henry and Vanetta (Gillman) Garrison.
He graduated from Vandercook Lake High School in 1962, he received his Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1966, and his Masters degree in 1974. He was the first person in his family to go to college. On August 20, 1966 he married Julie May Wheeler. They raised 3 sons, Jon, Ryan, and Patrick. After graduating from Michigan State, he returned to Vandercook Lake High School, where he was a coach and educator, teaching a variety of science, math, and computer classes. In this role, he touched the lives of countless young people, inspiring them to understand and to appreciate the world around them. He later became the Technology Director at Vandercook.
Phil had a passion for plants and the natural world, and sharing his knowledge with those around him. He passed this spirit of curiosity and sharing what he learned on to his students, and especially to his children and grandchildren.
Phil was preceded in death by his father, Henry, mother, Vanetta, and brother, Rich. He is survived by his wife Julie, his three children Jon (Marian), Ryan (Deborah Ann), and Patrick and special friend Jacquie Pospisil,and his three grandchildren Wheeler, Finn, and Charlie, as well as his brothers Joseph (Elaine) and Douglas (Janette), and many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.
Phil Garrison was a bright, strong, kind, and loving man who rescued his children from all kinds of trouble with grace and bravery. He showed everyone he met how to care deeply, how to love, and how to be better humans.
A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on January 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Watson Funeral Chapel, 2590 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI 49203. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to the time of service. Per CDC guidelines, masks are highly recommended.
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