Philip Leo Oswald

Phil was born and grew up on the tough streets of Hell’s Kitchen in Bronx, NY. An exceptionally bright young man, he earned admission to Bronx High School of Science then a coveted appointment to the US Military Academy, but he declined it to stay home and support his family. Instead, he enlisted in the NY Army National Guard at age 17. His evident command aptitude and work ethic eventually earned him a commission in the US Army where he served for 25 years as an Artillery and Missile officer, retiring at the rank of Lt. Colonel. A veteran of the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, the effect of his close proximity to so much cannon fire explained his boisterously loud singing of beloved military hymns — and why one had to shout to be heard by him!

Phil and his wife Lorraine moved many times around world with their six kids in tow, usually in a packed station wagon. The family fondly recounts stories of life in France, Alaska, New York, Panama, and finally, Hampton, VA, which became home. After retirement, Phil’s natural leadership emerged in the form of entrepreneurship as a financial advisor, restaurant owner, and overseas military contractor. He was always quick-witted, and loved sharing funny stories, usually at family gatherings during a good game of cards.

Phil was preceded in death by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 53 years, and mother of his six children, Lorraine Flanagan. He married a second time in 2005 to Carol Dely, who survives. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara and siblings, Evelyn and James. As Patriarch of the large Oswald family, Phil is survived by brother, Pete; two sons, Philip and Thomas Oswald; three daughters, Linda Smith (Dallas), Sue Shubert (Mark), and Lori Janousek (John); son-in-law, Jon Cotters; seven grandchildren, Jason (Christy) and Jennifer Smith, Kathryn and Michael Kopanke (Courtney), John, Daniel, and Samuel Janousek; and four great-grandchildren, Kendall, Madison, Riley, and Shelby Smith.

The Oswald family wishes to express deep gratitude for everyone who helped care for Phil in the past difficult months.

A private burial will be held at noon on March 4, 2021 at Parklawn Memorial Park in Hampton, Va.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be made to your favorite charity or perform a random act of kindness for a military member or family in need.

Service will be live streamed at 12:00 PM and can be viewed on Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home's Facebook page.