Fred Edward Phillips died peacefully at his home on December 30, 2022 in Williams, Arizona at the age of 86. He had battled cancer and other ailments recently, in addition to the loss of his beloved wife Edie in 2015. Fred was never quite the same after and he talked many times about a time when they would be together again.

Fred is survived by his brother David Phillips, as well as three sisters’ in-law, and a brother-in-law. In addition he is survived by one niece, three nephews, seven great-nephews, and three great-nieces. Fred is preceded in death by his wife Edith Phillips, brother Don Phillips, a nephew, his mother Celia Phillips, and father Paul Phillips.

Fred was born on December 8, 1936 in Warsaw, Indiana to Paul and Celia Phillips. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1961 with a degree in wildlife management. This is also where he met Edie and they began their lifelong journey together. They were married on June 17, 1961 and remained so until Edie’s death in 2015. He was then drafted into the Army and served in Georgia for a number of years.

After the couple settled in Williams, Arizona he began his long and illustrious career in game management. He worked for Arizona Game and Fish for 35 years retiring in 1997. Along the way, and according to him, he became the world's first turkey biologist. Fred was a passionate hunter, fisherman, conservationist, and animal expert. But none more so than with the turkey. Fred traveled the country, authoring articles, and guiding hunters with his signature calls. He would remove his teeth in his later years in order to call the birds. When asked why that was necessary his response was always, “turkeys don’t have teeth.”

The only other place Fred would have rather been than the woods with his gun, a lake or river with a fly rod, or in his recliner, was the golf course. Elephant Rocks Golf Course became his second home as he transitioned into retirement. His exploits there will likely be considered illustrious as well or notorious depending on which playing partners you ask. He was passionate about helping local youth in Williams have access to golf as an outlet though never sought credit for doing so. On most days you could find him in one of the first groups out, trying to win the shark and avoid the skunk, or down on the driving range picking countless baskets of balls.

Fred was a unique fixture in the Williams community for most of his adult life. His support of local causes and and his commitment to wildlife in the area will be nearly impossible to duplicate. But he and Edie's 50th wedding anniversary celebration, held at the Western View Steakhouse in 2011, he would most certainly call his crowning achievement. Fred was not the same without Edie, but they both will be remembered for their consistency, passions, and their love for one another.

The family would like to thank all those who encouraged, cared, and supported Fred over the years especially since Edie’s passing. In particular, Stephen Truxal, who lived with Fred and wore many hats including caregiver, companion, golf partner, and friend. Fred spoke often of Stephen’s impact in those years and how much he appreciated his relationship.

In lieu of flowers or other donations, please consider donating to the youth golf program at Elephant Rocks Golf Course on Fred’s behalf.  

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