Norman Francis Phillips died peacefully Thursday, October 7, 2010, in Eastern Niagara Hospital, Lockport Branch. He was born March 27, 1921, the son of the late James E and Emma (Mullett) Phillips. He graduated from St. Patrick's RC School, attended Lockport High School, and completed the 8 year Journeyman's Course in the International Typographical Union under the GI Bill of Rights at the Lockport Union Sun & Journal where he worked for 50 years retiring in 1991 as Foreman of the Composing Room.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years Elizabeth (Hanagan) Phillips, son Braden J. (Susan) and daughter Mary E. (S. Kimberly) Ferris, a granddaughter Blake E. Phillips and a grandson Matthew A. Ferris, predeceased by his sister Katherine Kiley and his brother James R (Scuds) Phillips; also survived by a cousin Mary R. Koehler and a nephew and a niece.

Norman's military service during WW II was with the 61st Signal Battalion serving in the ETO with the responsibility of reestablishing communication systems as the war was being won. He was discharged in 1946 with the rank of TIS Corporal. He was a member of the American Legion.

As a parent he participated in Cub Scouts, Babe Ruth League, and all of the youth hockey programs at the Kenan Center where he also played in the Old Timers Hockey League well into his 50's. He had previously played semi-pro hockey with a team sponsored by the Redman Club in the early'40's. He served a term on the Kenan Center Board of Directors. He and his wife were active members of the Briarwood Pool club until its closing, and he golfed in the Retiree's League at the County course. He was an avid armchair fan of the NY Yankees, the Buffalo Sabres, and the Buffalo Bills.

He enjoyed traveling and with his wife visited Japan, Europe, Ireland, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Alaska, the Panama Canal, the Caribbean countries, Mexico, China, Hong Kong and most of the United States.

Friends are invited to attend the Mass celebrating his life Friday at 11 o'clock at All Saints Parish, St. Patrick's Church, 76 Church Street, Lockport. There will be no prior visiting hours. Flowers are gratefully declined. Remembrances to the Dale Center, Lockport Public Library or the charity of one's choice would be gratefully appreciated. Please visit www.pruddenandkandt.com to leave an online condolence to the family.

Visitation

There will be no prior visiting hours.

Services

Friends are invited to attend the Mass celebrating his life Friday at 11 o'clock at All Saints Parish, St. Patrick's Church, 76 Church Street, Lockport.