Phillip "Phil" James Coon, age 73, lifelong resident of Big Rapids, passed away Monday May 4, 2015 surrounded by family at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. He was born on November 3, 1941 in Big Rapids to Elma Sample-Rouse Grabowski Coon Eddy and Alfred Grabowski. Phil graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1960. He married Kathleen Lawrence on June 23, 1962. Phil was a handy man and jack of all trades. His first job was at Stanwood Hospital; he also worked at the Big Rapids Theater, Wolverine Shoe, Hitachi, Admiral Petroleum and "the wrecker guy" for Curries Towing. Phil loved being outdoors and recently got to try out his new zero turn lawnmower. He loved spending time outdoors; from hunting and fishing to camping and gardening. Phil found every reason to be surrounded by nature, including a dream trip for Katie's and his 50th wedding anniversary across country and enjoying the nature of Alaska on a cruise. Phil had great love for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, instrumental in passing on his traditions, stories and history to his posterity. He was a man who worked with his hands. Phil's humor was infectious, bringing smiles and laughter to those he came across. His profound life and presence have left a lasting impact on his beloved family and friends. He will always be in our hearts but mostly by the love of his life Katie. Phil is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathleen Coon of Big Rapids; a son Mike (Dawn) Coon of Big Rapids; daughters, Sharon (Greg) Dagon of Cadillac and Nancy (Jim) Gigowski of Mecosta and his beloved labradoodle Max; grand-daughters, Savanna (Rob) Pontz of Big Rapids, Brittany (Shy) Deb of Omaha, Nebraska, Amanda and Megan Gigowski of Mecosta; great-granddaughters, Riley, McKenna, Abigale, Maddison, Avah and Adalyn. Phil is also survived by his sisters; Ruthann Rogers, Mary Cox and Elaine (Bruce) Rose; brothers, Bruce Coon and Seth (Vicki) Coon; special nephew, Jim Lawrence along with many other nieces and nephews. Phil was preceded in death by his parents, a brother in law Russ Lawrence and his beloved niece Robin. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2015 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Elder Bill Routley officiating. The family will greet friends on Wednesday, (today) at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Burial will be at Pine Plains Cemetery, Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Mecosta County Animal Rescue Coalition or the American Heart Association. Funeral Service Thursday, May 7, 2015 01:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307