Phillip "Phil" John Zukowski, 75, of Emerald Isle, passed away on August 15, 2020, at his home, after a difficult battle with cancer.

Born on July 4, 1945, Phil grew up in northwest Pennsylvania on the outskirts of Erie. From there, he attended Gannon University graduating in 1965 with a Bachelors of Science in Chemistry. Military service with the U.S. Army reserve. In addition to being a chemist, Phil was an excellent musician playing drums and providing vocals for many local bands in Erie area and while living and working (Amaco) in Greenville S.C. Later in life, Phil became a fixture in Emerald Isle, often times seen kayaking through the surf, fishing in the Sound, walking the Emerald Isle path, or taking a joyride on his beloved motorcycle.

Phill was preceded in death by his father, Stanley A Zukowski, and mother, Clementine (Alexandrowicz) Zukowski, wife, Minda (Roberts) Zukowski.

He is survived by his brother, David Zukowski (Erie, Pa.) and his partner, Joan Tyson (Emerald Isle, N.C).

He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and all those that knew his smile.

A special word of appreciation goes to his friends, the caregivers at Friendly's and the team at Community Hospice that have provided support and love during this difficult time, thank you.

A private ceremony will be held at a later date in Emerald Isle.

If desired, friends may make a memorial donation to the "Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation" department in his memory.

Online condolences may be made to the family at jonefh.org.

Arrangements are by Jones Funeral Home-Swansboro.

Sign the Guestbook at www.GoErie.com/obits.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Erie Times-News on Sep. 6, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Zukowski

Sponsored by Jones Funeral Home - Swansboro.

5 Entries

Heidi Miles

September 3, 2022

On the anniversary of Phil's passing, I would like to share a PHIL KINDNESS STORY.
I hadn't seen Phil in years, when one day he shows up and asks if I and my toddler daughter would like to go the County Fair. Between work and child rearing, we didn't get out much.
Well, we had never been to a County Fair and Phil with his enthusiasm made it so much fun.
Followed by a visit to a cabin where our friend and 'hermit' Stanley Kryzwicki lived with his pet geese or better his 'watch geese'. The geese roamed freely and Phil guarded my daughter and I from their forward moves. They squawked something terrible which brought Stanley outside. We three old friends had a nice visit. And gladly so because Stanley passed several years later. Also that day, Phil took us to see the land where he was building his A-Frame house. He was so proud.
So glad we shared that day together.
Love, Heidi Miles

Heidi Miles Wertz

September 8, 2020

Yes, Phil had a great smile, an expression of his good nature.
I grew up with Phil and Dave in the neighborhood.
I can still see them driving down the street in their Jeep with the top down. As a girl of thirteen, it made quite an impression.
Another lasting impression was that Phil was my first kiss.
I always felt that Phil would make a good life for himself with many friends and loved ones as it seems he did. It was a pleasure to know Phil.
My deepest sympathy to Joan and Dave.

Heidi Miles Wertz

James Burke

September 8, 2020

David, Joan and Family,
I was saddened to hear that Phil had passed. I will always remember our four years of Prep with him in many classes, 4 years of Band, living on the East side and riding to Prep on the motor scooter. One of our latest Class reunions Phil had traveled to Erie. Upon parking my car in the lot walking into Calamaries, Phil parked next to me and it was like 50 years ago talking laughing and enjoying life. We always laughed made jokes and had a great time. It was a pleasure to see him again, reminisce and just talk. He was a friend and he will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to all the people he knew.

Rosemarie Hill

September 6, 2020

I met Phil when he was working at General Electric in Erie and playing in bands as a drummer. He was a kind person, down-to-earth, with a sense of humor and a wonderfully rebellious streak. I was sorry to read of his death, it seems so unfair, but I am glad that he found a place that he loved and people who cared for him.

Gary Peter Kulich

September 6, 2020

So shocked and saddened to hear about Phil. First met him thru Bob, a mutual friend at the gas station in 1966 where I worked. He put lots of Honda miles on East Lake Road back then. Plenty of weekend trips following the "Puzzle" where ever they played. Kept in touch with him e mail wise about old times. All our thoughts and prayers go out to Dave and Joan. Gary & Sandy Kulich

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results