Phillip Spittler

URBANA – Phillip Randall Spittler, 49, of E. Florida Ave., Urbana, formerly of Clarion, died Thursday, Dec. 7, 2006, of a heart attack at his home.

Born Sept. 10, 1957, in Clarion, he was the son of Calvin C. Spittler and Genevieve Hitchcock.

Mr. Spittler was a 1978 graduate of the Western PA School for the Deaf and a graduate of Delgado Junior College, and he attended Gallaudet University.

He was a member of the Illinois Association of the Deaf and taught sign language at several colleges. Mr. Spittler worked as a laborer for Plastipak Packaging. He enjoyed art, travel and spending time with family and friends. He was always very active in bringing awareness to people about issues affecting the deaf community.

He was married to Barbara D. Durbin, who survives in Urbana. In addition to his wife, Mr. Spittler is survived by his mother, Genevieve Hitchcock of Strattanville; a brother, Kirby Emery and his wife, Kim, of Knox; three sisters, Susan Wilson and her husband, Gary, of Indianapolis, Dena Kahle and her husband, Chuck, of Knox and Sarah Spittler of Clarion; and the following nieces and nephews: Brandee Tuccy, Cory Wilson, Anthony Spittler, Karley Emery, Kenzy Emery and Rocco Tuccy.

He is preceded in death by his father, Calvin C. Spittler; and his stepfather, Wilber Emery.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, Jan. 6, at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 708 W. Main St., Urbana, with father Joseph Hogan officiating.