Phillip A. EDMINSTER Sr.

Phillip EDMINSTER Obituary

July 31, 1938 - April 19, 2025

Phillip A. Edminster, 86, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025.

He was born on July 31, 1938, in Omro, Wisconsin, to Paul and Gertrude (Appley) Edminster. He graduated from Omro High School in 1956. After a short stint as a peace officer in Omro, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961, where he completed Advanced Electronics Technician Training and Instructor Training School. He went on to teach electronics for the Navy in Waukegan, IL. In 1964, he married Sharon J. Hutchison in Port Angeles, WA. After his honorable discharge in 1967, Phillip worked for Control Data in Austin, TX, and later owned and operated a repair and hobby shop in Port Angeles, WA. He eventually settled in Spokane, WA, where he worked for the U.S. Bureau of Mines until his retirement.

He enjoyed 31 years of retirement, during which he continued to explore new interests and nurture lifelong hobbies. He could often be found relaxing at the Yaak River or at home watching a Zags game. He was a skilled woodworker, machinist, model builder, plumber, and electrician. He was well known for his remarkable ability to fabricate, construct, and repair just about anything. He learned his impressive array of skills the old-fashioned way-through persistent trial and error. A natural problem solver, he approached every challenge with creativity and determination. His hands-on approach to life's challenges not only defined how he built and fixed things, but also reflected how he tackled problems and offered support to those around him.

Phil was always quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. His affable personality came to life through his humor and life stories he shared with family, friends, and even total strangers; he was especially happy when visiting with his children and grandchildren.

Phil is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sharon; his children, Phillip (Ilo) Edminster Jr., Andrea (John) Jensen, and Nathan (Erin) Edminster; and eight grandchildren: Scott Edminster, Kira Edminster, Sydney (Heather) Sparks, Madeleine (Erik) Ness, Sophie Sparks, Sean Edminster, Simone Sparks, and Brady Edminster.

Phil was preceded in death by his eldest son, Paul Vernon Edminster; his parents, Paul Benedict Edminster and Florence Gertrude Appley; his brother, Earl Edminster; sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Harold Stang; brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Shirley Edminster; and his twin sister, Phyllis Ottman.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Phil's name to your favorite charity.

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

Published by Spokesman-Review on May 4, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Phillip EDMINSTER

5 Entries

George W Butterfield

May 15, 2025

Lori Edwards

May 7, 2025

Condolences to the family. It's been along time since we all visited but you all have been in my prayers. Hugs to the family and sorry for your loss.

Sydney Sparks

May 5, 2025

To me, he was always "Bumpa". More than just my grandpa, he was a constant in my life - there for me every single day throughout my childhood. His presence was a daily comfort, his laughter a daily gift. I called him "Mr. Fix It," because if something was broken, Bumpa could always fix it - whether it was a toy, a wobbly chair, or a bad day.

He had a quick wit and loved to joke around, always finding a way to bring a smile to my face. He was a railroad model buff, and his attention to detail and creativity in that hobby reflected just how smart and meticulous he was in everything he did.

Bumpa brought warmth, humor, and steady support into my life in a way only he could. His love and guidance helped shape who I am, and his memory will always hold a special place in my heart. I will always remember our days at the Yaak River and the coast. Love you always Bump

Amy Millman

May 3, 2025

From the moment Uncle Phil stepped into a room, the atmosphere shifted. His infectious laughter and quick wit were the heartbeats of our family gatherings. He had an uncanny ability to find humor in the everyday, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories.

Whether it was his playful teasing or the animated stories he shared, he ensured that smiles never left our faces. He wasn´t just my dad´s brother; he was our family´s comedian.

His legacy isn´t just in the jokes he told but in the warmth he radiated and the bonds he strengthened. In remembering him, we celebrate a life that taught us the value of laughter and the importance of bringing light into the lives of others.

He took great pride in his family and will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

Deb Lohman

April 30, 2025

One of my favorite pics...So Happy together!
"I'll always remember Uncle for his incredible intelligence, kindness, humor, and. smile."
"He made a real difference in my life at age 8, taking me to the computer room at the Great Lakes Naval Base."
Hugs and prayers to Aunt Sharon, Phillip, Andrea and Nate and the rest of the family.

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