Philip Dexter Wallbank

Philip Wallbank passed away in his home in Port Alberni on August 21, 2024 at the age of 78. He was predeceased by his wife, Bonnie (nee Evanson). Phil leaves behind his brother, Neville (Joyce), three stepchildren, Tammy (Bob), Rob (Spencer) and Audrey (Julian), as well as three grandchildren (Lauren, Logan and Landon).

Born and raised in Port Alberni, Philip was involved in a variety of community musical organizations for most of his life. He was the assistant coordinator of Timbre! for over 30 years, conducted the Fiddlin' Strings ensemble, the Allegro Madrigal Singers, the Phil's Harmonics String Orchestra and assisted Bonnie in a variety of ways as she led the Barclay Sounds Community Choir.

A talented composer and musician, Philip got a degree in music from the University of British Columbia, as well as a teacher's degree. After a short career as a high school music teacher, he changed careers and became a mail deliverer with Canada Post until he retired. Phil could play a variety of instruments, including guitar, violin, viola, banjo, bassoon, mandolin, recorder and arranged a variety of music that was used by the Barklay Sounds, Phil's Harmonics, as well as for the church choir. If he wasn't playing music, Phil could be found on his property along Beaver Creek attending to his enormous vegetable gardens. In his younger years, he enjoyed being outdoors hiking, skiing and canoeing.

A memorial service for Philip will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2:30 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel in Port Alberni.