Philip D. Stone Sr.'s Obituary
Philip D. Stone Sr., age 84, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026. He was born on May 3, 1941, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Cecil and Theresa (Garey) Stone, and remained a lifelong resident of the area. Philip graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central High School. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam and Korean War eras. Following his service, he worked as a machinist at Sargent’s for over 15 years, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. On June 27, 1964, Philip married the love of his life, Violet “Sandy” Westman, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and many memorable trips to the casino. A man of deep faith, Philip was a devoted member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church. He was also a proud member of the Don Rea VFW Post #8846, where he enjoyed spending time with friends. In his younger years, Philip was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a loyal fan of the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers and also cheered on Notre Dame. He enjoyed playing cards and spending time at the casino with family and friends. Above all, Philip was a devoted husband, father, and family man. He loved his family beyond measure and treasured every moment spent together. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his four children, Roger Stone, Philip Stone Jr., Eva (Anthony) Sander and Rosemary (Anthony) Minzey; nine grandchildren, Seleana (Jason) Gustafson, Phillip “P.J.” Stone, Heather Lock, Michel Udell, Gina Spira, Alex (Alyssa) Minzey, Tyler Minzey, John (Amber) Stone and Shuan (Brittany) Hladki-Smith; ten great-grandchildren, Alizaya (Destin Ogren) Jarembo, Austin Jarembo, Brielle Gustafson, Elijah Lock, Liberty Lock, Ethan Spira, Caleb Spira, Hope Spira, Layla Timmer, and Rubi Hladki-Smith ; one great-great-grandchild, A’Mora Ruth-Sue Ogren; brother, Tom Stone; sister, Maryann Laudermilk; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Violet Stone; three brothers, William Stone, Cecil “James” Stone and Patrick Stone; baby brother, Delbert Stone; two sisters, Sueann Stone and Rosemary Stone. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial Contributions in his honor can be directed to the Gary Sinise Foundation. He will be laid to rest with his wife at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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