Robert J. Phillips

Robert J. Phillips, 83, of New Philadelphia and formerly of Tuscarawas, died Monday, February 13, 2012 in Union Hospital at Dover following a six month illness.

A son of the late Emma Mae Phillips, Bob was born in West Chester, Ohio on December 24, 1928.

Bob graduated from Uhrichsville High School in 1946. He then enlisted with the United States Army on December 13, 1950 and served during the Korean Conflict. He was awarded a bronze star during his service and received an honorable discharge on December 13, 1952.

On April 22, 1951, Bob married the love of his life, the former Lucy Metzger. The couple raised three children, Steve, Joy and Michelle and celebrated shared 56 years of marriage prior to Lucy’s passing on December 28, 2007.

He retired from White Engine Company at Canton where he was on the security detail. Bob also served as a Tuscarawas County Deputy Sherriff from 1964 to 1973.

He is survived by his children, Steve Phillips of New Philadelphia, Joy (Terry) Westbrook and Michelle (Brian) Pinchek both of Tuscarawas and three grandchildren, Emily (Jeff) Phillips, Kari Westbrook and Brody Phillips.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 16, 2012 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. A funeral service celebrating Bob’s life will be held on Friday, February 17, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Peter Shults officiating. Burial will follow in St. James Lutheran Cemetery at Tuscarawas.