Philip 'Phil' James Sharnowski, 82, of Traverse City passed away Friday, December 15, 2017 at Tendercare of Suttons Bay.

Phil was born on May 16, 1935 in Maple City, MI to Theophil "Ted" and Julia (Fabizak) Sharnowski. He served his country in the United States Army and the Army Reserves. He married Sharon Rosinski on June 1, 1963 in Maple City. Phil was a water well driller for over 50 years and owned and operated Phil's Well Drilling for 46 years, the last thirteen with his son Kevin. He was a lifetime member of the Michigan Water Well Drillers Association. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for over 30 years.

Phil was an outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. He held the state record for the largest small mouth bass for over 43 years. He enjoyed large game hunting, especially caribou, and had harvested all 5 species of caribou achieving the Grand Slam. He enjoyed gardening and growing fruits and vegetables, especially onions and cabbage. In the fall, he would help Sharon with canning peaches and pears and enjoyed sharing his bounty with family and friends. Phil and his wife loved polka music and often attended many of the local polka dances. He could always be persuaded into a good Euchre game.

Phil is survived by his wife Sharon; children Karen (Alan) Anderson and Kevin Sharnowski; siblings Lawrence (Mary Ann) Sharnowski, Virginia Marach and Esther (William) Saxton; and granddaughter Kimberly Anderson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Barbara Sharnowski.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Monday, December 18, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Father Ken Stachnik will officiate the funeral.

Those wishing an expression of sympathy are encouraged to direct contributions to the Elmwood Township Fire Department, 10090 E. Lincoln Road, Traverse City, MI, 49684.