Obituary of Phillip Stanley Calkins
Phillip Stanley Calkins was born on May 6, 1949, in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of ten children born to Stanley and Marjory (Bosenbark) Calkins and attended St. Mary Catholic Central High School in Monroe.
Phil was a proud member of Teamsters Local 247 in Detroit. His professional journey as a truck driver spanned multiple companies, including R & R Site Services, WYBO Enterprises, PB Industries in Chicago, and Luco Cartage Central in Detroit. Phil approached his work with diligence and commitment, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
However, it was Phil's service during the Vietnam War that truly defined him. Phil's life was marked by dedication, service, and a deep connection with his community and the Navy. He proudly served on the USS Piedmont, and his experiences in the Navy created a lifelong bond that he cherished. Phil adorned his vest with pins and proudly wore his Navy hat, always open to conversations with other veterans and sharing their stories.
Outside of his military and professional life, Phil found solace and joy in the great outdoors. Fishing and boating on Lake Erie with his family brought him peace and tranquility, while occasional small game hunting alongside his brothers added a touch of adventure to his life. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, riding his Honda Gold Wing to explore new places and taking day trips around the state of Michigan, with Irish Hills being a frequent destination. Phil and his family also once took a memorable trip to Marion, Ohio, on their bikes for the annual Popcorn Festival.
His strong faith was an essential part of Phil's life. He loved the Lord and found peace in reading his Bible and attending Bible Study at his church. Phil's spirituality inspired him to give back to others, and he generously volunteered at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. He brightened the lives of patients, offering companionship, prayers, and even singing to uplift their spirits.
Phil's friendly nature and warm smile endeared him to everyone he encountered. Even after he could no longer drive, he remained independent, navigating his town on the bus, always ready for a friendly conversation or an opportunity to lend a helping hand.
Phillip Stanley Calkins, age 74, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on Tuesday; December 19, 2023. His passing was preceded by his father; a brother-in-law: Bill Young; a sister-in-law: Micky Calkins, and nephew: Thomas Carr.
To cherish his memory, he leaves his mother: Marjory Calkins; six sisters: Linda (Doug) Billock, Mary (Kenny) Lambert, Patricia Crevier, Vickie Young, Corrine (Tom) Carr, and Charlotte (Jerry) Keck; three brothers: John Calkins, Paul (Bonnie) Calkins, and Warren Calkins; many nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.
Phillip will lie in state from 10:00am until 11:00am on Wednesday; December 27, 2023, at North Monroe Street Church of God; 2393 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162. A Worship Service Celebrating His Life will take place at 11:00am at the church. Private interment with Navy honors will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Phil’s care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.