Normand "Wesley" Phoenix Jr.

Normand "Wesley" Phoenix Jr., age 66, of Marco Island, Florida passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024 surrounded by his family. Wesley was born in Bristol, Connecticut to Patricia Phoenix and Normand Phoenix.

Wesley is survived by his wife, Claudia Phoenix; his son Leigh Phoenix (Tara); his brother Jay Phoenix (Nancy), his brother Brian Phoenix (Dawn) and his brother Keith Phoenix (Rose); his grandchildren Elodie, Ethan, Calvin and Bruin. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Wesley was preceded in death by his father Normand Phoenix and his mother Patricia Phoenix.

Wes grew up in Sherman Park as the third of four charismatic brothers. It was there, in that idyllic 50’s neighborhood, laden with friends, that he developed his love of outdoor adventures. These long days outdoors spent fishing, skating, camping, tinkering, and exploring the great outdoors honed his survival tactics and would later provide him with the stories his grandchildren would love.

In 1989, the Phoenix family moved to Marco Island and his early days here would provide the opportunity to further embrace his love for this new outdoors of salt water and sun including golfing, boating and chasing the prized Florida game fish of Tarpon and Snook.

Anything involving a competition was his game; fantasy football, board games, lotteries, and tournaments of any kind would get him pumped. Cribbage was his favorite game. Wes taught the game to Claudia and then Leigh and it would be the heart of all family gatherings. His true passion though shined in the love for his family. Nobody was more excited to hear the news of a new grandchild, a niece or nephew’s accomplishment, or to celebrate a special moment with his wife of 44 years. Secrets were never an option with Wes as it was well known that if he knew, the temptation to share with brothers was too great.

As the years went by, his work became the business of managing his illness. With the help of his soulmate, it was a full-time affair. Activities became more confined to home and he and Claudia created a small backyard oasis that was an enjoyable place to spend the day. Birdwatching became a passion and the migratory Painted Buntings that made the backyard their winter stay over would be a great source of enjoyment. His vices were many and anyone that might happen to provide transportation for him knew a stop for Neccos, Kools, and scratch offs would be made.

Wes was a fighter. He battled a lifelong chronic illness and through the years had many caring, compassionate, nurses and medical teams that worked tirelessly to help him. He considered many of them close friends and the time spent with them was a solace to his soul.

Although he has left us, his spirit will live on in heated family cribbage games, cheering on New England sports, and the mischievous snack loving tendencies that have no doubt been passed to his grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please share a kindness.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.