He was born on January 20, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois to Mary and Philip Hellyer, Sr. Philip proudly served in the Marines before starting his career as a union plumber, retiring in 1980.
He married Mary Evelyn Ray on June 23, 1956, at the Presbyterian Church in Chicago before relocating to Crystal Lake, Il to raise their family. He enjoyed taking his family on road trips each summer, visiting friends and family, seeing many sights across the country. A favorite annual trip was at Christmastime bringing the family to spend with his sister in West Virginia.
Phil and Mary moved to a quiet farmette in Marengo in 2002, as they both truly enjoyed the quiet country life. In 2004 they celebrated their 48th anniversary shortly before her passing on August 15.
Survivors include his; five children, Thomas J. Hellyer of Marengo, Philip J. Hellyer of Crystal Lake, David L. (Catherine) Hellyer of Crystal Lake, Marilyn E. Shepit of McHenry and John W. (Michele) Hellyer of Marengo; his sister Marilyn Morrison of Milton, WV and grandfather to 12 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Nancy E. Hellyer; his parents; and beloved wife Mary of 48 years.
The visitation will be on Thursday December 23, 2021 beginning at 9:00 am at Zion Lutheran Church, 412 E. Jackson St. Marengo, IL with funeral services immediately following at 11:00 am. Private interment will be held in the Crystal Lake Memorial Park in Crystal Lake.
