Phillip Edmond Gunkel

Phillip Gunkel left his earthly bonds after a long battle with leukemia in Seattle, WA. He was born on August 17, 1954, to Edward and Phyllis (Cazier) in Lakeview, where he grew up.  He attended Lakeview High School and graduated in 1973.  After graduation he joined the Marine Corps, attaining the rank of LCPL, and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and El Toro, CA.  He was a Marine to the end, never gave up, and never gave in.

After leaving the Marine Corp, he returned to Lakeview, and after a brief courting married his wife Sheron (Britton) on March 10, 1984.  He became an instant dad to his new stepdaughter Sherri (Chenier) and adopted son, Robert.  Together they welcomed their son, Adam in the Fall of 1984.  He worked tirelessly for the State Highway Department for most of their married lives, retiring only after a medical condition forced it.

Phillip loved his” junk”.  He always said that you never knew when you might need it.  He loved going to auctions of all kinds and finding unusual ways to use his treasures. He usually had a grin on his face and would give anything he had to help someone out.  He was a kind soul who loved his wife and children with everything.  He became a papa in 1991 and the smile never left his face that first week. 

Phillip was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and older brother Edward.  He is survived by his daughter, Sherri (Mike) Sebastian of Lakeview, and sons Robert and Adam also of Lakeview.  Grandchildren Thomas Silone of Dallas TX, Zachary (Katie) Silone of Youngstown, OH, Maria (Robert) Derekos, of New Castle, PA, and Aldina and Alex Gunkel of Madison, OH as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Although we welcomed his relief from the suffering, he will be sadly missed by all.

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Park cemetery with Military Honors provided. 

Memorial contributions can be made in Philip’s memory to Lake District Hospital C/O Cancer Travel Fund, 700 South J Street, Lakeview, OR 97630, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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