Philip Wittlieff

Philip Wittlieff, 76, of Buchanan, passed away Friday, January 20, 2017, at his home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 24 2017 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with Father Arthur Howard officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M. on Monday, January 23, 2017, at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Bridgman.  Those wishing to sign Phil’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Phil was born September 9, 1940 in Manistee, Michigan, to John & Veronica (Gorecki) Wittlieff. He married Mary Ann Franckowiak at St. Joseph Church in Manistee.  Phil retired from Gast Manufacturing before starting a new adventure with his children, 5 O’Clock Sports Bar, where on any given day he could be found doing maintenance, sharing stories with the regulars and watching the History Channel. Phil proudly served in the United States navy from 1959 to 1962 as a 2nd Class Machinist Mate.  He served upon the USS Mattaponi and the USS Pawcatuck. He loved spending time with his grandkids, target shooting, reading and learning about world history. For relaxation, he tended to his yard. Phil is survived by his children, Kevin Wittlieff of Baroda, Brent (Tracy) Wittlieff of West Olive, MI, Elaine (William) Harte of Baroda and Michael (Kaylie) Wittlieff of Benton Harbor; and grandchildren, Alissa & Ryan Harte and Gunnar & Konrad Nitz. Phil was preceded in death by his wife Mary Ann on November 17, 2016, his parents and three siblings-Claude, Leona & Clemens.