E. Phillip Goethals

Edward Phillip Goethals, 83 of Kalkaska, passed away on June 26, 2023 at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center – Long Term Care. Phil was born on October 13, 1939 in Elberta, MI to the late Edward Victor and Rose (Nellesen) Goethals. After graduating from Frankfort High School, Phil studied at Michigan College of Mining and Technology where his interest in engineering was cultivated. He began his career at MichCon Gas Company and was one of the original employees at ANR Storage in Kalkaska, where he spent his career leading numerous construction projects and advancing the natural gas industry in the area. Phil’s dedication to serving others made him into a pillar of his community, devoting his time and energy to various roles. As a County Commissioner, School Board Trustee, and Kalkaska Memorial Health Center Trustee, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him. He was also a member of the Munson Healthcare Community Board. Later in his career, Phil was proud to serve as a Deputy for the Kalkaska County Sheriff's Department. Phil’s commitment to making a difference extended to his involvement with the Kalkaska Rotary Club. As a long-time member, he actively participated in the club's initiatives, fostering goodwill and encouraging community development. Additionally, his dedication earned him the role of Outbound Coordinator for Rotary District 6290, where he played a crucial role in organizing and facilitating foreign exchange programs, fostering cultural understanding, and promoting international goodwill. He opened his home and heart and was a “father” to dozens of exchange students over the years. He was a proud recipient of Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellow recognition. From a young age, Phil developed a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. As an avid hunter, fisherman and conservationist, he would often embark on adventures with a faithful dog at his side, immersing himself in the beauty of nature. He loved spending time along the shore of the Betsie River or in the woods with family and friends. Many great memories were made at Thunder Ridge camp with dear friends. His warm smile, sense of humor, wise counsel, and genuine concern for others will be deeply missed. Phil is survived by his wife Jane (Lewis) of nearly 49 years; children: Scott (Ruth) Goethals, Mark (Nicole) Goethals, and Andrea Goethals (Harrison Tong); grandchildren: Dan (Kristin), Todd (Melissa), Jonathan (Karen), Andrew, Allison, Cameron, Allison, Abby, Rachel, Felicia, and Stephanie; 10 great-grandchildren; and 3 brothers: Gerald, Stephen, and James Goethals. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Paul Goethals. A memorial gathering and visitation will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023 from 10am-12pm at Kalkaska Funeral Home. Funeral mass will follow at 3pm at Christ the King Catholic Church in Acme with additional visitation at the church beginning at 2pm prior to mass. Private burial will occur at a later date in Gilmore Twp Cemetery in Elberta. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Kalkaska Area Interfaith Resources (KAIR) or the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy in honor of Phil's commitment to his community. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

E. Phillip Goethals

October 13, 1939 - June 26, 2023