Phil was born in Freeport, TX to Beulah and Raymond Brubaker on January 24 , 1932. He grew up in New Orleans, and attended LSU (Baton Rouge) where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. Phil married his long time love Joan Gastrock during his senior year at LSU, and they were happily married for 68 years. After graduating, Phil joined the Corps of Engineers for the U.S. Army and proudly served his country for the years 1953-1955. During his service, Joan and Phil were able to see the world, but mainly talked about their time stationed in Verdun, France. Once honorably discharged from the Army, Phil and Joan lived in Texas City, TX and St. Louis, MO where he worked for Monsanto for 20+ years. After years of service, Phil was able to retire to Katy, TX in 2000.
Phil loved tinkering around with things, and was especially keen on repairing clocks, computers and whatever else he thought needed fixing. His expertise, no nonsense direction/advice will truly be missed by all that knew him.
He is predeceased by his parents, Beulah and Raymond Brubaker and older brother, Ray. He is survived by his wife Joan; daughters, Phyllis Knesek (Ron) and Becky Freeman (Randall); grandchildren, Kimberly Dewailly (Luc), Dr. Brian McWilliams (Alissa), Karen Stefansen (Tyler), Michelle Knesek-Cortez (JR), and seven great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the staff at both Buckner Parkway Place and Sterling Oaks Rehabilitation for their expertise and kindness in taking care of dad.
A Celebration of Life for Phil will be held Wednesday, September 29, 2021 starting at 10:00 AM at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079. He will be laid to rest, at Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans, LA on Friday October 1, 2021.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Philip's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
Serving as pallbearers are Bob Brubaker , Richard Brubaker, JR Cortez , Luc Dewailly , Brian McWilliams and Tyler Stefansen.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialoaksfunerals.com for the Brubaker family
