Philip Frederick Mesner

Phil was born May 7, 1933 and grew up Central City, Nebraska, the 6th of 7 children. Phil's lifelong love of nature and the land was seeded in Cornhusker country. He served in the US army in post-war Korea, completed his schooling and theological training, then worked as a chaplain in Kansas and Colorado. In 1970, he immigrated to Canada where he worked as an elementary school teacher. A favourite moment for Phil and his children was when a grown student would stop him in public and thank him for being 'the best teacher they ever had'.

Phil loved animals, and was a lifelong gardener and music lover. He played trumpet and piano, sang in choir, and had a special affinity for ragtime. Annual volunteer sojourns to Rowe Sanctuary in Nebraska to work with Sandhill Cranes inspired him, membership in the Outdoor Club of Victoria energized him, and Tai Chi practice renewed him. He loved spending time on Molokai and Saturna Island.

Phil will be remembered for his gift of connecting with others - whether it was getting on the ground to play with a child in their own space, debating politics, or tirelessly exploring ideas and matters of the spirit.

Phil is survived by his wife Lois Anne Mesner, his children Kristi Stead, Jerry (Cathy) Mesner, Kerr Mesner, Marci (Rod) Ekland and grandchildren Molly, Anna, Brenna, Maddie, Rhys, and Carter. He will also be fondly remembered by his siblings William Mesner, Helen Casper, Neil Mesner, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends in the United States and Canada.

The family would like to thank Dr. David Bell and Beacon Hill Villa for their wonderful care in Phil’s journey.

No service by request; flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be made to Beacon Hill Villa's Resident Benevolent Fund.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Victoria, BC.