Philip Girard

December 6, 1948 – November 24, 2021

It is with profound sadness that the family announces Phil’s peaceful passing at LWDH on Wednesday, November 24, 2021, with Lenora by his side. Three years ago, he accidentally cut his leg, and since then has courageously fought recurrent infections affecting his ankle replacement. When the infection moved into his artificial heart valve, it sadly became too big a battle to win. Phil was a kind, considerate man who was devoted to Lenora and his extended family. He will be remembered for his friendliness and good humour, trying to make the best of every situation. The last few years had physical challenges, but he was a fighter and held out hope that he would be getting back onto the golf course again. With so many hospital stays in recent years, he developed a tremendous respect for nurses and appreciated everything they did for him.

Phil was the youngest of six children born to Romeo and Emma Girard, of Atikokan, ON. He attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and Atikokan High School. After working in the mine for one year, he knew that was not the career path for him, so followed in his mother’s footsteps to become a teacher. He was hired by the Kenora Board of Education and taught at Evergreen School for most of his 32 year career. He completed his BA from Lakehead University by taking courses at night and in the summer.

During his younger years he was an avid baseball and hockey player, playing catcher and goalie, making his face a target for numerous injuries. His exploits in goal kept the Keewatin Shamrocks competitive in many a game. Golf seemed to be a much safer sport, which he enjoyed at Beauty Bay during the summer and Mesa, AZ in the winter. Hardly a day went by that you wouldn’t find Phil reading, so he frequented the library to make sure he always had books available.

Phil was predeceased by his parents. two brothers, Gil and Charlie and brothers-in-law Lorne Kurbis and Joe Harris. He is survived by his partner of 33 years, Lenora Zimmerman and her siblings Warren Zimmerman and Lesley Kuna. His sisters Anne Marie Kurbis and Denise Harris and brother Moe (Ruth) will remember their spoiled baby brother fondly. He is also survived by his sister-in law, April Girard. Having no children of his own, there was never a shortage of nieces and nephews for him to entertain by playing sports, cards, and board games. He was very close to his Kenora nieces Sue and Deb and nephew Dan, who considered themselves very lucky to have Unc P around for every milestone in their lives.

When Phil joined the Kenora Kinsmen in 1969, his dedication to the Club and Community service lasted the rest of his life. He held every executive position at least once and was always there when help was needed for any project. He was a permanent fixture at the Christmas tree lot and could be found around town selling raffle tickets and lobsters. In recognition of his many contributions, he was presented with a Kinsmen Club of Canada Life Membership in 1990.

Phil was mostly a homebody, but would agree to travel wherever Lenora dragged him and even have fun! He instantly fell in love with the Arizona weather and its many golf courses, so was happy to become a snowbird, even after being adamant that he would never do that because he wanted to continue to enjoy all 4 seasons. However, when he complained about the cold when he had to stay home one winter, he declared that he was no longer a man for all seasons!

On this infectious journey, Phil was impressed and thankful for the wonderful care he received while hospitalized in Winnipeg and Kenora. He was grateful that Dr. Barske never gave up on his ankle when the infection continued to attack it. He was fortunate to complete his journey at Lake of the Woods District Hospital, where he and his family were treated professionally and with compassion by Dr. Sarah Giles and the entire staff of Third East. In lieu of flowers and if friends so desire, our hospital would be well deserving of your donation. In Phil’s memory, please continue to support Kinsmen projects.

Immediate cremation has taken place. At Phil’s request, there will be no funeral. A family gathering will take place at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Girard family.