Philip Charles Arena

Philip Charles Arena Phil passed away on December 28, 2011. He was born to Joseph and Josephine Arena on June 25, 1944 in New York City. He joined the Air Force and was stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska. Phil married the love of his life, LaVerda, on June 5, 1966 in Palmer, Alaska. His first daughter, Michelle, was born in 1969. In 1970 the family traveled down the Alaska Canadian Highway to the lower 48. After attending a printing trade school, the family moved to Washington State. His second daughter, Janene, was born in 1973. The family settled in Olympia in 1979. Phil was an incredible father and wonderful husband. He loved everything about life. Family was always his number one priority. He modeled the importance of love, family values, faith, and work ethic. He was the adventurous one in the Arena family. He ran marathons and many 10K races. We went camping and took many road trips. From Alaska to the Bahamas one could find Phil having fun. He didn't sit still. After raising their girls, Phil and LaVerda spent many of their hours dancing the West Coast Swing, the Cha Cha, the Rumba, and any other type of dance that came their way. When they danced they received many compliments. When Phil danced his whole face lit up. Phil is survived by his wife LaVerda; daughters Michelle and (Kurt) Wieburg and Janene and (Brian) Bellew and grandsons, Justin, Jered, and Christopher Joe. He is also survived by his uncle Phil, sister Elizabeth and brothers Augie and Richie and many nephews and nieces. Memorial services will be held at Mills and Mills in Tumwater on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 10:00 am. In memory of his little Yorkies, Penney and Cassie, who gave him so much joy, donations can be made to the Humane Society.