Artie "Dale" Phillips

Artie "Dale" Phillips passed away surrounded by love, with his wife of 57 years, Marion "Jane" Phillips, by his side. A devoted husband, father, and proud grandfather (known lovingly as "Papa") Dale built a life defined by curiosity, commitment, and deep care for the people he loved. Dale married his high school sweetheart, Jane, in 1969, beginning a partnership that started when they were just 16 and 17 years old, eventually growing into a long and beautiful life together. Their years were filled with laughter, shared adventures, and a love of travel (especially cruises all over the globe) always side by side. Family was at the center of Dale's world. He was a beloved father to his three children, Jason, Amanda, and Michael, and a proud Papa to his four granddaughters Alison, Laurel, Brooke, and Alexis who brought him endless joy. He loved his family deeply and unconditionally, and there was nothing he wouldn't do for them. His presence was steady, supportive, and deeply felt. Dale loved fishing, a passion he shared throughout his life with his father and brother, and later passed on to his own children. Those quiet hours on the water reflected who he was, patient, present, and happ(Y) when spending time with the people he loved. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Dale carried his sense of service into every chapter of his life. After retiring from General Motors at 52, he embarked on a second career as an adjunct professor, embracing teaching with the same enthusiasm he brought to learning. A lifelong student, Dale earned his PhD later in life and was affectionately known to family as "Dr. Dork," a nickname he wore with pride and humor. In recent years, Dale discovered a passion for painting, once again proving it was never too late to learn something new. Dale will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the love he gave, and the example he set. A memorial gathering for Dale will be held on Saturday, February 7 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service, 11:00 a.m., at First Congregational Church of Royal Oak, 1314 Northwood Blvd., in Royal Oak. Memorial contributions, in accordance with his wishes, may be made to his three granddaughters' college education funds through MESP. Gift links are available below. https://www.ugift529.com/ Brooke Lamb - E3V-D4J Laurel Lamb - Z4S-P38 Alison Lamb - H79-28C

Artie "Dale" Phillips

November 13, 1946 - January 28, 2026