It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Phillips who died peacefully in Victoria, BC on April 9th, 2025, after a full and adventurous 85 years. He was predeceased by his wife, Isabel (nee Fox) in 2022. He is survived by his three children: Jill (Kevin) Sing, Andrew (Joanne) Phillips and Shea (Danielle Brochu) Phillips; 8 grandchildren: Tristan (Alanna) Prince, Adrian (Larissa Thomas) Prince, Robin (Rachel Brears) Prince, Olivia (Ben) Siegal, Thomas (Alyson) Phillips, Phillip Sing, Elayna Sing and Felix Phillips. Michael will also be missed by two great granddaughters and two great grandsons. Born in Plymouth, England, he is also survived by two sisters and their families. At 17, Michael left his home country to join the Royal Canadian Air Force. A sense of adventure was one of his boldest qualities!
Michael’s career began in Greenwood, NS as a radar tech before receiving his commission and becoming a navigator. He crewed the Argus anti-submarine aircraft (405 and 415 Squadrons) patrolling the Atlantic coast. He and Isabel met in 1961 when she was a teacher in Greenwood, NS and they were married soon after in her hometown of Port Hastings, Cape Breton.
Michael served 37 years in the Canadian Forces, earned a degree from Carleton University, and in the course of his duties moved with his family to stations around the world including Winnipeg, MB, Ottawa, ON., Summerside, PEI., Bracknell, UK., Lahr, Germany, and San Antonio, Texas. Throughout his time in the military, travel and fitness were always a key element of his life, including running the Athens Marathon in 1982 and 1983. He inspired his children and grandchildren to love the outdoors and live life to the fullest.
Michael retired from the RCAF in 1992, and he and Isabel moved to Victoria, settling in Cordova Bay. His second career, after achieving a Certified Financial Planner designation, was providing insurance advice to military members before retiring again in 2000.
Michael and Isabel travelled the world, to over 30 countries, usually to hike in the world’s biggest mountain ranges, but slowing down occasionally, to enjoy a beach in Hawaii or Australia. At age 68, Michael decided it was time to see his country from a bicycle seat and pedaled across Canada from Victoria to Newfoundland in 90 days!
In 2010, Isabel was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Michael dedicated himself to being her caregiver. Despite the challenges, they still managed, with the help of their fellow hiking friends, their trips to the Austrian Alps until 2017. When Michael resumed his adventures, he was accompanied by his dear friend, Rhoda Chilton. Since his stroke in 2023, Rhoda has been by his side, a devoted companion and immense comfort to him.
Michael was always working to better the community. He was a founding member and President of the Cordova Bay 55+ Association and former president of the Victoria Outdoor Club. He was also an early member of the Voices in Motion choir and an avid supporter of the Alzheimer’s Society.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful B2 staff at Broadmead Veteran’s Memorial Lodge who provided professional and loving care to Michael through a difficult time.
Please join us in celebrating Michael’s wonderful life on May 25, 2025 @ 3 PM at Broad View United Church, 3703 St. Aidans Street.
The event will be live streamed at: https://broadviewunited.org/special-events-3/
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Michael & Isabel Phillips Fund at the Victoria Foundation (https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/130690), Broadmead Care Society, or the Alzheimer Society of BC.
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