Formerly of Benton Harbor, and a graduate of Coloma High School, Philip Preston passed away on Aug. 9, 2022, in Asheville, N.C., after a long illness.
Philip is survived by his wife of 31 years, Helen C.K.E. Preston; daughter, Sheena Eddy; and siblings: Carol (Steve) Lape, Betsy (Phil) Benoit, Ardeth Preston Anderson, James (Sindy) Preston, Jerry Preston (Rick Kowalski); a host of loving nieces, nephews and cousins; mother-in-law, Carol Zaagman; brother-in-law, Lance (Dawn) Korp; and sister-in-law, Karon Korp (Russ Martin).
He was a hugely creative and talented musician his whole life. He is remembered for his joy, kindness, friendship and sense of humor. He was a bright light to everyone who knew him, and made a difference in this world with his music and service.
A private celebration of life is planned for Sept. 25, in Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Scleroderma Foundation, at www.scleroderma.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Melanie Shook
February 6, 2025
My condolences to Helen and the loved ones of Phil. I've been out of touch and didn't know, but he was a bright light on many stormy days for me. He lifted me up with his jokes and smiles and music. I'll never forget him. He will always be in my head, cheering me on. I will miss him terribly and I hope you guys can celebrate his life every day.
Jerry Veverka
September 21, 2022
Sorry for your loss. I have many memories with your family growing up in a small community. You are all bless with musical talent and Philip was always willing to share in his gift.
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Marcia (Loewen) Erb
September 19, 2022
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I originally met him in grade school here in Benton Harbor, MI. He was always so nice and funny and we had many good laughs on the playground
Donna Loewen Lippert
September 19, 2022
We are sorry to learn of the loss of Philip. Praying for comfort.
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