The world became a little less fun on Tuesday, Oct. 7, with the passing of Phil Ludwigson. Phil was born on Dec. 19, 1945, to Florence and Ludwig Ludwigson in Manistee and died peacefully at his home. He was 79 years old.
Phil graduated from Manistee High School in 1963 and then spent one year at Northwestern Michigan College. In 1966 he married his high school sweetheart Cassandra at St. Mary's of Mount Carmel Shrine and was a member of the Catholic community of Manistee. He drove a truck for Manistee Tobacco and Candy Company, bringing home an endless supply of Mallow Cups for Cassandra to enjoy, before beginning a 30+ year career at Manistee Tire Company. Later he owned and operated Phil's Tire before retiring. Needless to say, if you needed tires in Manistee, you knew Phil.
Phil's biggest joy was spending time with his family. Just hanging out, playing cards, watching sports (or Gunsmoke) or of course making generous donations to the Little River Casino. Phil was a talented golfer from a golfing family, a long-time member of the Manistee Golf & Country Club and its 1970 champ. He had a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit and was always giving friends "the business" usually with language that can't be printed here. Phil was a life-long fan of the Green Bay Packers enjoying family trips from the 1970s and ecstatic when his son David got his season tickets after a 30 year wait.
Phil is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Cassandra. His devoted children David (LaMont), Lisa (Bobby) Smith and Jennifer. His grandchildren who were his world, Lexi (Kyle) Lund and Max (Alyssa) Rakoski. His beloved sister Jane and her husband and best friend George Thomas, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Marc and Sue Stepniewski, Philip and Tammy Roskoski and Carole Ludwigson. And by niece Debbie and nephews Jason, Jeff, Mike and Matthew. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Luddy.
A celebration of life to honor Phil will take place on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Herbert Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors at 10 am with the service to begin at 11 am. A luncheon follows at the Manistee Golf & Country Club. At Phil's request, in lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to the Ludwigson family at 275 St. Mary's Parkway, Manistee, MI 49660. Any monetary gifts will be donated to a local charity.
Although Phil may no longer be with us physically, may his memory and sense of humor continue to be a blessing and lift us in all we do.
The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of arrangements.
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