Racine- Philip Ellsworth Revels, 73, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 8, 2011.
Philip was born in LaCrosse, Wisconsin on October 13, 1937 to the late Max and Hazel (Bloss) Revels. His family moved to Racine in 1965. On January 19, 1963, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Eleanor L. (Vinson) Revels, of whom he affectionately called “Kitty”. His heart was broken when she died on February 6, 2005.
A man of simplicity with a profound work ethic, Philip was employed in the foundry of Belle City Steel for 9 years before starting his 30 year career at JI Case, from where he retired. Among his interests, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, singing and playing his guitar. Philip will also be remembered as a master of story telling and jokes. He was born with the gift of gab and absolutely loved being in the surroundings of his entire family.
Surviving are his daughters, Tina Revels, Mary (Mark) Norby; and “the other daughter”, Rachel Zabler, all of Racine; grandchildren, Danielle Revels and Tyler Kauzlarich; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers, John and Terry; sisters, Shirley and Judy; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends – too numerous to mention by name. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his 6 brothers, Shelton, Stanley, Clint, Claire, George and Theodore Revels.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2011 at 11:00 am in the chapel of West Lawn Memorial Park, 9000 Washington Avenue, with Rev. Jeffrey M. Thielen officiating. A reception will follow. Visitation will be in the chapel at West Lawn on Saturday beginning at 10:30 am.
Jennifer Webber says
My dear uncle Phil, I write you with a heavy heart. I will forever miss you. I carry so many memories of you and your jokes and tales…From telling me that we were now married with that ring you got me out of a bubblegum machine..(I was 7)that taught me to take you with a grain of salt..to stashing you at my house so Kitty didn’t find you..to the “laugh and cry ” song that we all loved so much. I am also relieved, knowing that you are with the people you dearly loved and suffer no longer. I love you Old Man..and will miss you everyday..
mary norby ( Revels) says
To my father,I could share so many things with the world right now but all I want to do is stay silent for my partner in crime is gone and my heart is broke.I will miss you POPPY…I love you. MARY
Cathy Fell n Joe Fell says
I believe Heaven is having fun dealing with a Mighty Fiesty Angel!!!!!
Linc & Dot Norby says
Our deepest sympathy to all your family….May God grant you peace.
Bobbi Freiheit says
Revels you will truly be missed by all of us kids who you have touched with your silly stories and jokes to keep us entertained throughout the years. You entered my life 32 years ago when Mimi and I became friends and have remained there ever since. In my heart I will keep you. Enjoy your reunion with Miss Kitty. If anyone deserves to rejoin their true love it is you.
Bye for now.
Love You,
Bobbi and Family
Jenny & Jim Erickson says
Mary, Tina, Nellie, Tyler & family. I am very sorry for your loss. I’m glad I had the opportunity to see & talk to Phil at Momma Mar’s wedding, it had been so long. Please hold on tight to the great memories and let them help you through this tough time. Thinking of you all.
Jen & Jim