Carl Edward Phillips

Carl Edward Phillips, 88, of Shawnee, Kansas, died on September 15, 2011, at his home.

Born in Pittsburg, Kansas, July 31st 1923. Carl was loved and admired for his quick wit, his artistry, his wise way with words, his kindness, his generosity, his patience, his unbending honesty and integrity. He attended High school in Sedalia, Missouri; and later, the Kansas City Art Institute.

After marrying in 1947, he started a career as a sign painter specializing in hand lettering, design and layout. He was the owner of Merriam Signs until he retired in 1995. Even in retirement he continued to paint both professionally and as gifts for friends and loved ones. He loved his work.

He had a lifelong love of fishing, and was an avid competitor at horseshoes and bowling, participating in league play at both until earlier this year.

He served in World War II as a reconnaissance scout, venturing behind enemy lines to draw maps. He survived the Battle of the Bulge in the winter of December 1944 - January 1945, earning a Bronze Star. In 2010 he was recognized at the US Capital building in Washington, DC for his efforts in the liberation of the inmates at the Nazi prison camp at Dachau.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Donna; three daughters Christina Mingorance, Jeanne Kay, Catherine Phillips; adopted sons Roy and Michael Dodson, and their spouses; two sisters Marie McDermott and Betty Warmington; six grandchildren: Veronica Headley, Andrea Mingorance, Marco Mingorance, Whitney Kay, Casey Kay, and Michael Kay; and five great grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial contributions to:

Kansas City Hospice

10100 W. 87th Street, Suite 100

Overland Park, Kansas 66212

or

Humane Society of Greater Kansas City

5445 Parallel Parkway

Kansas City, Kansas 66104

or

Rainbow Division Veterans Memorial Fund

c/o Ben Pettus, Treasurer

801 NE Jamestown Court

Blue Springs, Missouri 64014

Memorial Service and Graveside Service

A memorial service will be at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, September 17, 2011, at the Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee. Inurnment will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday, September 19, 2011, at Leavenworth National Cemetery.