Philip Harvey Volk

Born on July 10, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, to Carl and Jane Volk, Phil grew up in Livonia and attended Franklin High School. He went on to earn his master’s degree in education from Oakland University, though his lifelong education came from the people, causes, and communities he devoted himself to.

Phil was the embodiment of compassion and commitment. A deeply selfless man, he dedicated much of his life to helping others—especially young men in crisis, whom he welcomed, mentored, and guided as they worked to rebuild their lives. Phil’s generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A tireless activist and proud member of the Democratic Party, Phil’s passion for justice was first sparked during the Vietnam War protests and never dimmed. He was a longtime advocate for Native American rights through the 3 Fires Cause, an active voice in LGBTQ+, and a devoted environmentalist at both local and national levels.

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Phil was also deeply rooted in faith and community. He was a beloved and active member of Brown Chapel AME Church, where he recently gave the prayer at the annual dinner and led the church’s HIV/AIDS outreach initiative. For over 35 years, he was also a faithful member of the Ann Arbor Friends (Quaker) Meeting House, where his quiet wisdom and enduring belief in peace and equality were constants.

A proud UAW Teamster (Local 614), Phil worked many jobs across the manufacturing and automotive sectors. But his contributions extended well beyond the workplace. At Town Center Plaza in Ypsilanti, he led the Garden Committee and found joy and purpose tending to the earth. A member of the American Rose Society, Phil was never happier than when in nature—feeding birds, planting, pruning, or simply sitting in the sun.

Phil was also a lover of the arts and intellect. He was a published writer, a skilled painter, an avid chess player, and a lifelong lover of classical music. A gifted carpenter, Phil found peace in building with his hands and joy in reading and reflecting on life’s deeper questions. He also spent time teaching children how to play chess at the local library, encouraging young minds to think critically and creatively.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Jane Volk.

He is survived by his brother, Carl J. Volk Jr. (Judy); His sister, Carol Hice (Ted); his nieces and nephews and their families; Paul (Tammy) Volk, Carl Volk III (Julie), Kristin Moore, Derek Volk, Sue Brandt, and John Hice. Phil is also survived by Rob Hastings (Jen & family), whom he raised as his own son, as well as his mentee, Jeffery Hunter, who was like family. He will also be deeply missed by his beloved cat, Mickey.

A celebration of life for Philip will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Ann Arbor Friends Meeting House, 1420 Hill Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

In honor of his enduring legacy of service and love, memorial contributions may be made to the Brown Chapel AME Church Food Program: https://www.bcamecy.org/giving

Phil’s life was a testimony to the power of kindness, action, and belief in a better world. His light lives on in the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the beauty he helped grow—in gardens, communities, and hearts.