March 31, 2020 – West Bend, WI – Edward W. Philippi, 90, of West Bend Wisconsin passed away peacefully on March 29, 2020. He was born in West Bend on February 28,1930 to the late Alban and Susan, nee Laufer Philippi.
He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 56 years, Kathy, nee Schmitt, Philippi and their children Debbie (Don) Koloski, Gary (Di) Philippi, Keith (Kim) Philippi and Karen Philippi. He was also greatly loved by 6 grandchildren, Nicole (Ron) Gundrum, Matthew (Jessi) Koloski, Benjamin Koloski, Christine (Dylan) Carter, Jessica Christian, and Grace Christian. He is also survived by 2 great grandsons, Theo and Noah Gundrum, who were the joy of his life. Ed is also survived by 2 siblings, Laverne (Tom) Winkler and Donald (Pat) Philippi along with many nieces and nephews and friends.
He graduated from Marquette University as a mechanical engineer by going to night school while working full time to support his family. He worked at the West Bend Company for 45 years. He was a faithful member of St Frances Cabrini and previously Holy Angels Catholic Church for all his life. He attended daily Mass until last year at which point, he watched on TV and attended Sunday Mass when possible.
He served in the Army as an instructor during the Korean War and was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, daily walks, sheepshead and later in life the card game Hand and Foot which he played with his wife almost daily and with his children and grandchildren whenever possible. We think he carried a deck of cards in his back pocket.
A memorial mass and celebration of life will be scheduled at St. Frances Cabrini Church at a future date.
The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is serving the family.
