Kenneth Lee Phillips, 87, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2020. A Memorial Service will be held at 4pm, on Saturday, August 1, 2020 at Outreach Restoration Branch, 723 South Crysler Avenue, Independence, Missouri, 64052. In lieu of flowers, you may choose to donate to the Honor Flight (www.honorflight.org/donate-online.html) or to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).Kenneth (Ken) was born to Earl Stanley and Elsie Fern Phillips in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada on December 28, 1932. He became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1955.

He is survived by his brother Lyle Phillips of Alberta, Canada and by his children: Laurie King and husband Jeff of Blue Springs, MO; Michael Phillips of Independence, MO; Debra Karr and husband Troy of Independence, MO; and Keith Phillips of Independence, MO; grandchildren: Ammon and wife, Stefanie King of Pacific, MO; Amber and husband Dennis Cairns of Blue Springs, MO; Andrew King of Blue Springs, MO; Michael and wife Jonna of Independence, MO; Elizabeth and husband Leo of Grandview, MO; Nichole Phillips and Chris of Kansas City, MO; Danielle Bell of Denver, CO; Chase Karr of Independence, MO, Logan Karr of Independence, MO; Craig Phillips of Independence, MO; Zachary Phillips of Independence, MO; Trevor Phillips of Independence, MO; Aiden Phillips of Blue Springs, MO; and 4 great grandchildren. 

During his lifetime, he held the rank of Staff Sergeant in the United States Airforce and served in the Korean War. Following his service, Ken went to school and became an Electrical Engineer. He met his wife Lois (Hurshman) in Independence, MO. They were married 51 years before Lois passed away in 2007. Ken was also proceeded in death by his parents of Independence, MO and his sister Lois Walters (Campbell) of Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. 

Ken and Lois lived in Fairbanks, AK for several years as missionaries along with other members of Lois’s family. They returned home to Independence, MO in 1967.  Church and family were the most important things in Ken’s life. Ken held the office of Elder and served faithfully all his life. Ken loved to tinker, invent and build things. He loved working on model airplanes made from balsa wood. Ken loved all pets but he was always drawn to man’s best friend and had several throughout his lifetime. He was often caught giving snacks even though it was against the “rules”. 

Arrangements:  Royer’s New Salem, Independence, MO   816-796-8600