In the early evening hours of October 2, 2016, Joseph Emielien Philip (Phil) Guay slipped quietly into the hands of God at the Athabasca Extended Care at the age of 90.
He leaves behind his cherished wife Rose, whom he had met on a summer trip to Banff in 1953. Their nearly 63 years of marriage were celebrated in many ways including raising six children - Lorraine (Rick), Dennis (Jo’Anne), Yvonne (Chandi), Lyle (Theresa), Roland (Kim), Neil (Joanne) and 11 grandchildren - Bret & Cody Dunwoodie, Jamie-Lyn Thorpe, Stephen & Meagan Guay, Peter, Matthew, Thomas & Carmitta Guay, and Jake & Yvette Guay. Philip will now forever rest beside his first born child, Brian, who died in 1955.
Philip was born on the family farm west of Athabasca on August 5, 1926 and spent 88 of his 90 years in the same house on the farm his father homesteaded near Baptiste Lake. From the three quarters of land, Philip and Rose's mixed farm of grain, hay, cows, pigs, chickens, turkeys and ducks supported the raising of their family. Many days were spent with their kids and grandkids exploring, working in the fields, caring for the animals and being free to learn about life. Philip also worked for over 20 years as caretaker of the Provincial Building in Athabasca, the Athabasca County Shop - where he was nicknamed "Whistling Phil", and at the Meanook Biological Centre.
Through the years, Philip’s fondness for travel took him and Rose to all parts of Canada, the U.S., Scotland, England, Australia and New Zealand. It was not unusual that he would meet old friends at some far off airport or on a ferry ride.
With Rose, Philip was very active in volunteering with the Air Cadets, the Boy Scouts and the many school trips their kids had. Highlights were the rides in the Hercules planes and helicopters with the Air Cadets and camping during the Jamboree's with the Boy Scouts. His love of his motorcycle and the quads and ski-doos contributed to endless hours of entertainment and exploring out west with his kids and grandkids.
Philip’s eagerness for a rousing game of crib with a cup of coffee and homemade cookies was always a welcome break for family and friends.
Philips family would like to thank the staff of the Athabasca Extended Care, the Pleasant Valley Lodge and the Athabasca Regional Hospital for all the love and care they have provided to Philip over the past two years. It is truly appreciated.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, October 8th at 1:00 PM at the Athabasca Roman Catholic Church. A Prayer Service was held on Friday, October 7th at 7:00 PM at the Athabasca Community Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of Canada in Philips name would be appreciated.
