Alexander Ivan Phillips

It is with great sadness, that we announce the peaceful passing of Alex on May 30th-2026 at Freeport Hospital in Kitchener at the age of 91. He was predeceased by his wife and best friend Edna (Hamilton) in 2016.

Lovingly missed by his children, Christopher Phillips (Debbie) of Kitchener, Ontario, Gary Phillips of Plattsville, Ontario and Donna Dechert (Steven) of Plattsville, Ontario.

Grandfather to Jade Dechert, Lisa Hiemstra (Jeremy), Jody Telling and Jesseca Orr (Matthew) and Great-Grandfather to many. Alex will hold a special place in the hearts of many nieces and nephews.

Alex will be fondly remembered by his second family, children of Edna – Daughter Julie Painting (Paul of Appleton, Wisconsin, and their children Hannah, Maggie and Isaac. Son William Hamilton (Christie) of Toronto, Ontario and the son Liam.

Alex was born in Toronto, Ontario to Amy (Robinson) and Ivan Phillips. He is survived by his sister Helen Mawhinney (Gordon predeceased), his brother Robert, and sister Marion Verhel (Chester predeceased). Predeceased by his brothers, James (deceased Pat) and Harold (survived by Lorraine). Predeceased by twin brothers, Ronald and Donald at birth.

Alex worked for many years at the Guelph General Hospital as Manager of Central Stores from where he retired. After Alex retired, he and Edna would enjoy occasional work driving cars purchased at auctions to local dealerships to sell. In his early adult years, he worked as a Manager of a Canadian Tire Gas Bar in Peterborough, Ontario and as a Maintenance Mechanic at Quaker Oats in Peterborough, Ontario. He was offered a job in Guelph to work at an Insurance Company that brought the family to Guelph in 1969.

His hobbies included playing in a slow pitch baseball league, which he continued to participate in until a few short years ago. He also enjoyed listening to music, watching sports and working on cars. He always enjoyed friends and family gatherings for dinners and socializing.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Aspira Doon Village Retirement Home where he spent his last year as his home. A special thank you to Freeport Hospital, Palliative Care Unit that took care of Alex in his last days before passing.

In remembrance, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and Family are invited to share memories at a Celebration of Life for Alex on Saturday, July 4th-2026 at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph, Ontario from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Interment to follow at Guelph Woodlawn Cemetery.