Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
Michael Phillips
Michael was born in Anchorage, Alaska on November 20th, 1949, to Douglas Sr. and Elizabeth Phillips. As a child they moved out to Big Lake to homestead. He briefly left Alaska when he was drafted during the Vietnam War. During that time, he served for 10 years in the U.S. Navy as a navigator on submarines. Michael returned to the homestead in 1980 and continued to live there until his passing. In 1988 he joined the Alaska Army National Guard where he continued to serve his country for another 28 years before retiring in 2005. The occupation he enjoyed the most was his time as a supply Sergeant for the Alaska Military Youth Academy.
When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed watching Star Trek, fishing and exploring the state that he loved. He is preceded in death by his parents, Douglas W. Phillips Sr. and Elizabeth A. (Colborn) Phillips. He is survived by his children Michael (Mickey) C. Phillips, Desiree L. Phillips Solso; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and family members who loved him.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, August 19th, at 6:00 pm at Fish Creek Park in Big Lake.