Mark Ronald Philipps

Mark Ronald Phillips was born on August 4,1931 in Deland, Florida, to Mark S and Abbie Godwin Phillips. He was the youngest of 6 children: one brother, Chester; 4 sisters, Winnie May, Wilma, Millie, and Margurette. He was raised in Jacksonville, Florida.

He helped his mother in the garden and did other chores around the home until he was old enough to hire out for odd jobs. He had his own ice and kerosene business at age 17.

Mark enlisted in the Air Force shortly after the death of his mother. He was 18 years old. After basic training and radar school he was assigned to McCord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Washington. He was sent to Condon Radar Base in 1951 when it became operational. While in Condon, he met and married Janet Marie Sprouls on September 27, 1952. He attained the rank of Staff Sargent before his discharge in February, 1953.

He and Janet moved to Jacksonville, Florida, after his discharge. They lived there for three years. Their son, Mark Ronald Jr., was born there. Mark worked for Olin-Mathieson Chemical Corporation. In 1956 the family moved back to the West Coast. They lived in Crescent City, California, where Mark was employed by ABC Music. In June 1956, they moved back to Condon, Oregon, where son, Gary Lee, was born in October 1957. Mark worked for Jerry Schreiner at his garage/service station for one year. He was then hired by the Oregon State Highway Division. He advanced to Foreman of Condon Maintenance Section and retired after 31 years of service. In 1985 he was honored as an outstanding employee in the division. After retiring he went to work for Mid-Columbia Bus Company as their Maintenance Man. During the next 15 years, he travelled and worked between the company’s several locations.

Mark was active in the community for many years. He served as Vice Chair and then Chairman of Condon’s Fabulous Fourth of July Celebration. He was Cub Master for the Cub Scout Pack for a number of years. During the 60’s and 70’s he was active in the United Church of Christ. Mark also was a life member of the Masonic Lodge #95 AF and AM and a past Master of the Lodge. He served as District Deputy of the Grand Lodge and Worthy Patron of Condon Chapter #23 Order of Eastern Star. He was a member of Condon Elks Lodge #1869 for over 60 years. Mark’s only hobby was work.

He enjoyed doing things for people, particularly when they had no one else to do chores for them. His payments for these chores was usually a Dr. Pepper and homemade cookies.

Mark loved his family very much. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great -grandfather. He was very proud of his family. His one regret was that he was unable to see his Florida family very often, but loved them all. He also followed his sons in all of their activities even after they were grown and had their own families. He always lamented not being able to be closer to his grandsons so he could attend their school programs and athletic activities.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, siblings, and his dear son, Mark Jr. He is survived by his wife, Janet, his son, Gary (Betty), daughter-in-law Becky, grandsons Sean (Melissa) and Matthew, great-grand daughters Everly and Rosalie.

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