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Philip Q. Sawin, Jr.

Philip Q. Sawin, Jr.

Philip Q. Sawin, Jr., 84 of Menomonie, Wisconsin went to join his beloved wife Judy in Heaven on Wednesday February 7, 2018. Phil was born in Hockessin, Delaware on June 14, 1933, son of the late Philip, Sr. and Dorothy (McKee) Sawin. He married Judith (Lease) on June 11, 1960 in Madison, Wisconsin. They enjoyed over 57 years together until her death on December 19, 2017. 

Phil graduated from Lawrence University, Appleton, Wisconsin in 1957 with a degree in history, and went on to obtain his Master’s degree in Library Science, graduating from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1966. He began his career in education, serving as the Librarian at St. John’s Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin for three years. Phil then moved East to serve as Librarian at Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut until 1967 when he received an opportunity to become the charter Librarian at Herkimer County Community College in Herkimer, New York. In late 1974, Phil returned with his family to Wisconsin, where he accepted a role as Head of Acquisitions with the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Phil ended his career with the University school system after serving in a variety of roles.

Phil was very active in many organizations throughout his time in Menomonie, including: a member of St. Joseph Parish, Knights of Columbus-Monsignor Blecha Council 2055, Kiwanis, Dunn County Board, Indianhead Library Federation, and as a former chair of the Dunn County Republican Committee. Phil was also the proud co-author of A Literature Guide to the Hospitality industry. His greatest enjoyment came from time spent with his family.

Phil is survived by his four children: Mark, Knapp, WI; Peter (Deb), Belleair, FL; Philip III (Leigh Ann), Two Harbors, MN; and Liz (Burke) Welch, Menomonie, WI.  He is further survived by seven grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Zachary, Mary, Keegan, Emma, Madison, and Keeley, in addition to his brothers Stephen (Karen), Kill Devil Hills, NC; Douglas (Terrance Griffin), New Braunfels, TX, and his sister Lorie (Don) MacLeish. Phil was preceded in death by his wife Judy and his sister, Ellen Gilman.

Funeral services for Phil will be 11:00 AM Monday, February 12, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Fr. James Kurzynski officiating.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in the spring.

 Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 10:00 AM until the time of service. A luncheon will follow in Charles Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Phil's name are appreciated to Stepping Stones, Menomonie, WI or the Menomonie Public Library.

Phil’s family would like to give thanks to the staff at The Neighbors for all of the care and compassion given to Phil over the past two and-a-half years; you all truly were part of his extended family. 

Condolences

  1. Sally Rasmussen

    I worked with Phil at the LIbrary at Stout and went to school with his son, Philip. Both incredible people. So sorry for the loss of a wonderful man.

  2. Ted Stark

    Phil was a great supporter of local libraries and worked to better them in Dunn County. He served on the Menomonie Public Library Board of Trustees; Indianhead Federated Library System Board, the state library system serving western Wisconsin; and the Dunn County Library Planning Committee as a Dunn County Supervisor. He made a real difference for all the libraries in Dunn County. His death served to remind me that we can all make a difference and when we think the work we are doing doesn’t mean much in the large scheme of things that’s just wrong. It does make a difference and will yield returns where it matters most, right here.

  3. Carrie McKnight

    You are in my thoughts and Prayers. It was a blessing and privilege to be able to get to know your dad and mom.
    Prayers for peace and strength for your family.

  4. Sally wolfe

    So sorry to see phil left us, i know he is happy now with judy, they were wonderful people, i met phil and judy at the center he had the room next to my mom who left us in nov. May they all rest in peace.

  5. Brian Finder

    Please accept my condolences with regard to the loss of Philip. I remember him from my earlier teaching days at UW-Stout and greatly enjoyed his company. You are truly blessed to have him in your family.

  6. Michelle Greenway-Lawler

    I was so sorry to see this, but am not really surprised, as I know how much Phil loved his Judy. I am sure he could not bear to be without her. I worked with Phil years ago at Stout, and I will always have the fondest of memories of him. Both he and Judy were wonderful people, and I am sure the family will miss them very much. They have definitely left a wonderful imprint upon this community.

  7. Susan Collie

    Phil and Judy were wonderful neighbors. Friendly, thoughtful and genuine. Phil and Judy will be missed terribly. -Steve and Susan Collie

  8. Pat Eggert

    Phil was a hard worker and inspiring friend as I joined his efforts to sustain and improve library services in Dunn County while we were both on County Board. He will be greatly missed.

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