Born on summer solstice; passed 80 years later on winter solstice.

How poetic is that!

God bless Phil and all those he loved.

I met Phil not too long ago when I rang his doorbell to inquire what all the fuss was about the many "No Solar" signs that were clearly aimed at his early adoption of Solar Thermal and Solar Photovoltaic arrays on and around his home. I am part time resident of the Wautoma area and I'm involved with renewable energy in suburban Chicagoland. Phil was a bright light and will be missed.

Oh gosh, Mary – I have a hundred memories of times together with you and Phil…. From many times at your Manchester farm…. I remember the Jerusalem artichokes, the hay field, the river and little bridge…. The cats, our many trips to places like the Yellow Door and Amish grocery store… the Lilac Wood Shop, the great cheese place where I bought bleu cheese….. I think it was on Hwy H.

I especially loved our long ambling philosophical talks back in the 80’s. It felt so free to be able to talk about all the “What If’s.” Most people I knew were planted deeply in the dogma of childhood religions and felt they couldn’t question it. But we three were free to explore religion and the universe and many other things. The two of you eventually found a direction that felt right. So did I. And tho our paths were different ones, they didn’t keep us from remaining as dear friends.

Over the years I have “bragged” to friends or anyone, about Phil’s commitment to wind and especially solar – and how the two of you Lived that life…. And how you had invested in a Tesla and not only drove this extremely efficient vehicle – but also produced your own solar power to fuel it. Today’s critics try to tell us that electric cars cost too much drive. I know better. There is no excuse for there not already being charging stations everywhere. We’ve had at least 50 years to get ready. The fossil fuel industry will continue to buck the solar system as long as they can – or until they ‘own’ it in some way.  But they will be greatly challenged and called to task by people like Phil.

May these wonderful qualities that Phil had, grow and expand in others.