Philip Dean Garoutte

Phil, as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by his presence. We ask that you remember Phil not for how his life ended but for how he lived and for his profound impact on those who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.

Phil was born to Robert and Ruby (Vahl) Garoutte in Cedar Rapids, IA in 1947. After he graduated from Jefferson High School, Phil went to Ellsworth Junior College in Iowa. After only a year in college, Phil was drafted by the United States Army, where he served his country with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment in the Vietnam War. After completing his military service, Phil returned home and took a job with Montgomery Ward, where he worked for many years in management until the company went under. After, he worked in other retail management positions until he retired from Lowes Distribution Center in Rockford, Illinois.

In 1968, Phil met his wife, Linda. After marrying in 1969, they moved to Van Horne, IA, where they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith. They had two sons and, later, three grandsons. Once their children had grown, Linda and Phil moved to Rockford, Illinois, where Phil was employed by Walmart. Several years later, they retired in North Carolina, the perfect place to show off Phil's gardening skills. The garden was one of his favorite places to be. He had a green thumb that most could envy-a love both he and Linda enjoyed together. Fishing was also one of his pastimes. Phil loved a beautiful mountain trout stream or the deep waters of Upper Goose Lake in northwestern Ontario. He liked playing cards, collecting coins, and spending quality time with his closest friends from The American Legion in Van Horne, Iowa, where he was a member for over 50 years. Phil also enjoyed being a member of the 40-8 La Société des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux for over 32 years. He firmly believed in hard work, keeping your word, and showing up for those you love. Phil was a proud veteran, which showed in his character's strength-disciplined, loyal, and quietly brave. He carried these values into every aspect of his life. Phil's devotion to his family and friends brought many years of laughter, celebrations, and memories that those of us left behind will cherish forever.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, honor, and family. He is survived by his wife, Linda; sons Randy (Michelle) from Amana, IA; Brian from Apex, NC; and grandsons Cody, Jacob, and Nicholas, all from IA. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruby, and brother, Jim. Though Phil is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.

The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice of Raleigh, NC, and the Durham VA Hospice Unit of Durham, NC, for the care and compassion they showed Phil during his final days. We are also grateful for the love and support given to us by our family and friends during this difficult time.

A service to celebrate Phil's life will be held on Sunday, April 27, at 2:00 pm at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 2100 Buffaloe Rd., Garner, NC. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service. Military honors will be rendered in recognition of his dedicated service to our country.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the American Legion in Van Horne, IA, or Heartland Hospice in Raleigh, NC.