Kenneth Phillips
1950 – 2026
It is with great sadness that the family of Kenneth Phillips of Edmonton, Alberta, announces his passing at the age of 75.
Ken was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community volunteer whose kindness, generosity, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Throughout his life, he was always ready to lend a helping hand, never hesitating to assist family, friends, or neighbors. His willingness to help others was one of his most defining qualities.
Ken dedicated much of his career to serving others through his work with Social Services, where he was respected for his knowledge, professionalism, and commitment to helping people. He was also known as a dependable driver, someone who could always be counted on when a ride was needed, any time and to any place.
Family was the center of Ken’s world. He shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Brenda Phillips. He was a proud father to Michelle Phillips and Susan Phillips (Luke Smith), and an adoring grandfather to Lauren Phillips, Ella Saunders, Payton Smith, and Cole Smith. He shared a special bond with his sons-in-law, Luke Smith and John Saunders, who brought friendship, laughter, and cherished memories to his life. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Lynda Ward, and by the Schmidt family, who held a special place in his heart.
Ken’s passions reflected his energetic and adventurous spirit. He enjoyed officiating track and field, volleyball, and racquetball and remained active throughout much of his life. He loved spending time with family, taking vacations, and enjoying days on the Sea-Doo. He was a loyal supporter and longtime season-ticket holder of the Edmonton Elks and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer for his team.
Those closest to Ken will remember his laugh and quick wit. He was exceptionally knowledgeable and enjoyed sharing what he knew with others. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family and took immense pride in their accomplishments.
Ken believed strongly in giving back to the community. He generously volunteered with Santa’s Anonymous and supported the Multiple Sclerosis Society, causes that were close to his heart.
Though he will be deeply missed, Ken’s legacy of kindness, laughter, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will live on in the many lives he touched.
In keeping with Ken’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada or Santa’s Anonymous.
“A life well lived is measured not by what we gather, but by what we give. Ken gave generously of himself every day.”
Brenda and family, our sincere condolences. We both admired and respected Ken and are so sorry to know how difficult his last years have been.
Do take good care of yourselves. We know you will have many wonderful memories of such a great man.
Sharon and Bob Rechner
Brenda and family. I am so sorry to hear about your loss, and about the health issues that Ken faced over the last while. Ken was a mentor and a friend when we worked together in government, and I will remember our times with fondness.
Brenda and family; My deepest condolences as Ken was one of the good ones. His steady presence added to every situation a calm and measured approach. Ken’s humour always brighten the day. I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to work with him. May you find peace as you remember all the good times.
Judy Soars
Sincere condolences to the family. It is always so hard to lose the ones we love. I hope your many happy memories will help to ease the pain.
Marilyn Spilchen
Co Worker
Dear Susan & Brenda,
Very sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. He was such a nice man. All the years being neighbors with my parents , he was always so kind to them.
Sending hugs , prayers & our sincere condolences to you both & your family.
Rosa & Terry Rocchio
Brenda and Family my sincere condolences to you all
Our sincere condolence to Brenda and Family
So sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. I remember him through Social Services and always thought of him as a very caring and wonderful man. Condolences to his entire family.
I am so sorry to read of Ken’s death. He was a lovely man and I hope there is a Heaven where Pieter will welcome him with a hug
I was so shocked to hear about Ken’s health challenges over the past few years. I feel fortunate to have visited with him a couple of times last year.
Ken certainly was one of those people who leaves a lasting impression on me and even though he was ill in the last stages of his life, I could still see the Ken Phillips that I have known for years gone by.
Rest in Peace Ken. My thoughts are with Brenda and family.
Holding you in my thoughts Brenda and family. My years working with Ken in government include many good memories. He was a mentor to some of us younger staff, sharing his wisdom, calmness and humour, often guiding us through many turns and paths along the way. His caring and kindness was personal, calling me to let me know when one of our colleagues and good friends passed. This was Ken, a man of integrity and compassion.
Susan Taylor
Although it has been many years since we saw each other, I was sorry to read of Ken’s death. I am a first cousin (our fathers, Lynn and Neil Phillips were brothers). We did see my Aunt Doris occasionally. The obituary describes a man we would have been proud to know, and we are sorry for your loss. Also, our condolences to Lynda.
Our deepest condolences and love to all of you. Ken was a wonderful person and a light in the world. Love Bryan, Jennie, Eli and Jules.
Brenda and girls so very sorry to hear about Ken!! Just seems like yesterday all of us were neighbors and did so much together!! Memories we will always cherish
Take care all of you
Condolences to the family. We missed him a lot at the GOA volleyball Monday nights.
Phillips and extended family.
My most heartfelt and deepest condolences to all of you. Mr Phillips was always looking out for us even in our early adulthood. Take care
I was deeply saddened by the news of Ken’s passing and the challenges faced over the past few years. Our paths crossed frequently throughout our government work and his professionalism,kindness and good humour were greatly appreciated by his colleagues .He will be greatly missed by his family and close friends .