John Francis Phalen, age 87, of Little River, SC, unexpectedly passed away on October 19, 2020.
John was born June 19, 1933, to Paul and Lorna (Leonard) Phalen of Rossie, NY. He was the oldest of six children.
John graduated from Mohawk Central School (Mohawk, NY) in 1952. Soon after he joined the Navy, he was honorably discharged and returned home to Mohawk, NY, to help his mother raise his five siblings after his father passed away. He met and married Jean Corcoran in 1957 and together they raised four children. He was employed by General Electric from 1953 and retired in 1992.
The Patriarch of the Phalen family, he provided strong guidance to his siblings, children, and grandchildren throughout his life with his focus on strong morals, leadership, schooling, and affection. John always had a smile on his face and a story to tell. His life lessons helped generations to grow into the loving family he has left behind. He will be missed by all, but the lessons and stories he imbedded in all of his family throughout the years will never be forgotten.
John’s hobbies included a strict budgeting system, researching family history, sending out monthly birthday emails, taking care of his boy Linus, and ensuring that the love of his life, Jean, had everything she needed. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage together.
He is survived by his wife, Jean (Corcoran) Phalen; children Patricia Lucey (husband William); Paul Phalen (wife Diane); Daniel Phalen (wife Karen); Colleen Phalen (Martin Hahn); grandchildren William Lucey; Aaron McColough (wife Angelena); Jacob Phalen; Mark McColough; Addison Phalen (wife Emily); Makenzine Phalen; Kassidy Phalen; Justus Phalen; Abigail Phalen; Samuel Johnson; and Alexander Phalen; great grandchildren Ryan McColough; Rhea McColough; Thomas Gay; and Hugh Hacker.
John is also survived by his siblings Lois Nevils; Kathryn Knewasser; Michael Phalen; Thomas Phalen; in-laws Jane Luppino (husband John); Kathy Mabbett (husband Dick); Jay O'Neill; and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents Paul and Lorna Phalen; brother David Phalen; in-laws David Knewasser; Delores Phalen; Barb Phalen; Eileen Phalen; Frances Phalen; Sheila Short; Betsey O’Neill; and Phil Corcoran.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.
Donations may be made to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society.
A guestbook is available at www.leefhandcrematory.com.
Lee Funeral Home & Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.
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