Philip Mark Whitcomb, of Fergus Falls, died on Sunday, December 6, 2015, at the age of 55. He passed quickly after being diagnosed with terminal cancer at the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND.
Phil was born on October 10, 1960, to Donald and Marion (Knutson) Whitcomb in Princeton, MN. Upon completion of school in Princeton, he served as a member of the military police, with the United States Air Force, from 1978 to 1980.
After being discharged from the service, Phil began his career driving semi-truck, first in the Princeton area and then further across the country. In 2001, he chose to settle in Fergus Falls, to be closer to his family. Phil worked various positions in the community, but the most important and enjoyable to him were the evening bowling leagues and the seasons he spent umpiring baseball.
Moving to Fergus Falls brought an end to the constant running of a troubled man. Phil was able to form a strong relationship with his companion, Bev Runningen, and began to reach out to correct past errors with his family, especially his daughters. Phil became a loving father and devoted grandfather.
Phil’s passing will be strongly mourned by his family and his presence will be missed in the community of Fergus Falls. Phil has requested that there be no public service. He requested a gathering of his family next summer in Princeton to celebrate his life and lay his ashes to rest, next to his father Donald. Phil’s only regret was that it took so long to realize what was most important in life. His greatest comfort was the true love and forgiveness he was able to receive from very special members of his family. He passed truly at peace and with love.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Whitcomb.
Phil is survived by his mother, Marion Whitcomb of Princeton; his significant other, Bev Runningen of Fergus Falls; his daughters, Candice (Shawn) Hiedeman of Fergus Falls, Cassandra Whitcomb of Amor and Becka Whitcomb of WI; his three young granddaughters, Nora (8), Emma (6) and Avery (3), who were the joys of his life; his sister, Colleen (Jerry) Johnson of Maple Grove; his brother, Joel (Shauna) Whitcomb of Princeton; his aunts and uncles; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be sent to Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls at: 711 Pebble Lake Road, Fergus Falls, MN, 56537.
Assistance with arrangements was provided by Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls.