Michael Phillips

Dr. Michael Gale "Mike" Phillips, 73, passed away on March 14, 2025, in Mill Creek, California. Born on October 16, 1951, in Berkley, California, Michael lived a life marked by dedication to his profession, devotion to his family, love of music, and a deep commitment to service and education.

Michael's academic journey was one of perseverance and excellence. He was a proud Bella Vista High School graduate of 1969. From Bella Vista, he spent ten years at the University of the Pacific, where he earned his bachelor's degree in '73, a master's in science in '76, and ultimately a doctorate in pharmacy in 1979. While there he joined the fraternity Alpha Kappa Lambda (AKL). The stories he told of this special brotherhood brought joy that radiated off of him and a mischievous twinkle to his eye.

Michael began his career as a pharmacist in the early 80s at Mercy General Hospital where he met his wife, Susan before moving on to Sutter Memorial. His expertise and leadership soon led him into education, where he taught anatomy and physiology part-time at American River College. Recognizing the impact he could make beyond the classroom and pharmacy counter, Michael transitioned into the corporate side of Sutter Health. There, he played an instrumental role in launching a health career academy in 1999 at Encina High School-an initiative that reflected his belief in empowering future generations through education. He also began leadership with his coworkers of the largest company wide training event called the Management Symposium. This massive two-day event took months of planning every year. His daughters, Emily and Sara recall the symposium with memories of dinner conversations around slideshow content and most importantly, the music playlist. In 2001 Michael became the program manager for the Experience of Work, an infinitive to listen to and implement the needs of Sutter Health employees. He took pride in helping Sutter Health staff be seen and heard. In 2006 Michael became the Learning and Development manager. Until the end of his career in 2014, Michael continued to be a trusted advisor to many management team members for his knowledge of leadership development.

In 1988 Michael was baptized Catholic at St. Mel's Church where he was a devoted member for many years. Later he attended Divine Savior Parish. During the pandemic, he volunteered his time to assist with operating the screen that displayed key parts of the Mass-a small but meaningful contribution that reflected his enduring faith and willingness to serve.

All who knew Michael remember him for his size physically and emotionally. Michael could command attention in any room and used this presence to fight for those who couldn't fight for themselves. Friends and family will remember him as gregarious, funny, and thoughtful. Michael was quick to host friends for dinner and his famous Gin Fizz, a secret recipe he imparted on his youngest daughter. (Only after she had graduated from college.) Generous with both time and resources, he was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. Michael is also remembered for his musical interest. He didn't go anywhere without a playlist ready with everything from smooth jazz of the '90s, to rock of the '70s, to pop of the '10s, Michael loved it all. He had a unique talent for naming the perfect song to encapsulate any situation.

Above all else, Michael cherished his family. He shared a deep love with his wife Susan (Susie Bear) Phillips and delighted in expressing it through thoughtful gestures-especially buying her flowers for every major holiday and milestone they celebrated together. Michael loved to plan vacations and create memories for Susan. One year, when in Disney World, Michael managed to pull some strings and get a birthday dinner for Susan in a room so exclusive it typically went to celebrities and presidents. Another year he planned out a Christmas in Disneyland, complete with a surprise visit from Santa. His favorite vacations were the two he and Susan took just the two of them to Hawaii. He couldn't wait for Susan to experience the magic of "aloha" and see a Hawiian sunset. Michael was excited to celebrate their fortieth wedding anniversary on April 20th of this year, and had started discussing celebration plans a year ago. Michael's favorite thing was to hear Susan's laugh; their daughters have fond memories of them teasing each other with loving banter at the dinner table.

Michael was a devoted father to Emily Phillips (Emmers) and Sara Cate (Sara Beara); a proud grandfather to Georgiana Cate; and a respected father-in-law to Rick Cate and David Daggett. Despite the hours of work Michael devoted to Sutter, he always made time for his daughters. He attended every soccer game, flute and dance recital. His family will remember and miss Micahel's incredible problem-solving skills. He was the first one they all went to for help and advice. In the last few years of his life, the Phillips' were lucky enough to have been closer as a family than ever. Both Emily and Sara continue to feel immense pride at the work Michael put in to make that closeness possible. More than anything, Susan, Sara and Emily will miss Michael's incredible hugs. No one could give a love-filled squeeze quite like he could.

Michael leaves behind his beloved mother Marie Phillips. He was preceded in death by his father Gale Phillips.

Michael's legacy lives on not only through the family who loved him dearly but also through the many students he taught, colleagues he mentored, and lives he touched throughout his remarkable career. His booming laugh, and larger than life presence will not soon be forgotten.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.