Born in New Glasgow NS in October 1932 to George and Helen (Fraser), Phil died peacefully at home on Friday, 13 March 2020, in his 87th year. He was the eldest of four brothers: Donald (Claire); the late Robert (Lena); and George (Evelyn). He was the very caring husband of his loving wife Joyce (nee Mirams) of London England – they were married for 63 ½ wonderful years. Phil is survived by Joyce, their sons Keith (Lorna) and Brian (Kim), and their grandchildren Glenn, Evan and Morgan. Phil was a deeply committed family man and will be sorely missed by his family and his many friends and colleagues.
He enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in the Canadian Armed Forces, joining in 1951 and retiring in 1989. He was first commissioned into the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada and re-badged to Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in 1968. His service took him to postings across Canada and United States, and several times to Europe, where he and Joyce enjoyed many adventures. He was particularly proud to have commanded the 3rd Battalion, PPCLI, in Work Point Barracks, Victoria BC, from 1971 to 1973. He was also the Canadian Defence Attaché in the Canadian Embassy in Moscow from 1980 to 1983, accredited to the USSR and also to Finland.
Visitation and Funeral Service will take place at Beechwood National Cemetery, with Internment to follow in the Beechwood National Military Cemetery. In view of the restrictions in place as a result of COVID-19, a date cannot be confirmed now, but it is hoped that it will be in mid-April. It is requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.
Digital Guestbook
Susan and David Slaunwhite
Phil & Beverly Tweedie
WE HAVE JUST RECEIVED THIS VERY SAD NEWS. PHIL WAS OUR FIRST CO IN 3 PPCLI. A VERY FINE GENTLEMAN AND WONDERFUL MENTOR TO A YOUNG OFFICER. ALONG WITH JOYCE HE CREATED A STRONG SENSE OF FAMILY FOR THE OFFICERS AND WIVES OF THE BATTALION. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH JOYCE AND FAMILY. WE'LL HAVE A BEER WITH HIM ON OUR NEXT VISIT TO BEECHWOOD. ONCE A PARTICIA, ALWAYS A PATRICIA. IN PACE PARATUS.
RICHARD COWLING
A true gentleman and a great officer. Phil was always comfortable to be around. Quiet humour and loyal friendship.
Court Stevens
My first commanding officer when I was completing my officer training phases. An excellent Commanding Officer who provided much needed guidance and advice during my first months as an officer cadet and as a platoon commander between phase training!
Joseph Rozon
A great Commanding Officer. Remember him with fondness. My condolences to the Roy Family.
Our condolences to Phil’s brother, George, and Roy family.