Philip Hewitson

He leaves behind his beloved Ruth, his wife of 47 years, who captured his heart at first sight when he saw her biking at The Salvation Army Camp. From that moment on, Ruth was the center of his world. Together they built a life filled with faith, family, and countless memories. Phil also leaves behind his sister Rena Gould, his children Stephen, Michael (Laura), and Andrew (Niki), his grandchildren Ruby, Eli, Alexandra, Jacob, and Isaac, and many friends each of whom lit up his life with pride and joy. He is predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Daisy Hewitson, his brother, Ted (Dorothy) and brother-in-law Bill Gould.

As Phil’s friends can tell you, his life was one of remarkable warmth, and a deeply rooted love for God, family and the outdoors. As an avid cyclist, Phil loved exploring on his bike and his rides were a source of joy and connection. He went on many adventures over the years as part of "The Madding Crowd," a loyal group of friends who stood (and cycled) by one another through life’s highs and lows. Phil’s presence in the group was like a steady beacon; dependable, always up for an adventure, and a true friend through it all. The family cottage, Madawaska, and Fernleigh Lodge, were places of peace for him, where he spent hours with family, cycling, conversing, and laughing with those closest to him.

Family was a priority for Phil. He poured his heart into raising his children and adored his grandchildren. Jacob captured what we all feel when he said, “I bet Granddad is up in heaven doing what he loves to do with all of us. Luckily, we’ll get to see him again someday.” Phil had a passion for building just about anything, and he shared that love with his children and grandchildren, teaching them the joy of working with their hands and showing them how to create, fix, and imagine together.

Phil’s faith was the bedrock of his life. He dedicated countless hours to The Salvation Army church to help support local community programming. He was also a team member on many mission trips over the years helping to build homes and schools. In the band, his music was more than notes; it was an expression of his unwavering devotion to God. Phil shared his faith in everything he did, carrying the spirit of kindness and joy wherever he went. He inspired everyone he met to live with love and compassion.

His passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but we carry his light forward in every act of kindness and in every memory we hold dear.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Phil’s life will be held on November 10, 2024 at 3pm at The Salvation Army Kitchener Community Church (75 Tillsley Dr, Kitchener, ON N2E 3T1). Those wishing to pay their respects to the family are invited to attend the visitation, which will take place from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Salvation Army - Kitchener Community Church and Hospice Waterloo.