Phil's obituary
Philip "Phil" Davidson Hewett passed away at age 70 in Madison, Wisconsin on June 21, 2025, after a complex and hard-fought battle with cancer.
Preceded in death by his mother Lynn Hewett, brother Charley Hewett, sister Audrey Stinchfield and father Mac Hewett.
Survived by daughter Stella Hewett, son Alex Hewett (Michelle Hogan), step-daughter Emily (Patrick) Gleason, brother Patrick (Melanie) Hewett, and step-mother Nelly Trocmé Hewett. Nieces Lynn, Amy, Megan, Lauren, Madison, and nephew Chapman. In addition to his loving family, Phil was survived by a close and lifelong group of friends. His love extended past humans to his many dogs and childhood cats; he was quick to share a morsel while grilling or his lap while reclining by a fire.
Phil took significant pride in entertaining, providing for, caring for and protecting his loved ones. He found joy in identifying solutions whether in his personal life or his three separate professions: fine art, retail management and business information solutions. Despite the responsibilities he carried, Phil was renowned for his personality: he was gentle, humorous, empathetic and always ready to provide a firm handshake and warm smile.
An outdoorsman through and through, he shared his love of nature with others through camping, hiking, canoeing, backpacking, biking, swimming and birding.
Phil's array of interests reflects the complementary influences his parents instilled in him: he appreciated his father's mastery of the physical and mechanical realm and his mother's understanding of art, culture and the soul.
Many of his formative years included sharing his love of music, road tripping, food, history and paleontology with his siblings and close friends. The family documentarian, Phil often had a camera nearby and prized his many family keepsakes, photos and videos. Among his many passions and collections were art and objects from multiple cultures, fossils, stamps, coins and books.
A celebration of Phil's life, love and interests will be held at a later date; details forthcoming.