Phillip "Phil" Hendges

Phillip Earl Hendges, 79, of Traverse City, died peacefully Friday, June 3, 2022. Phil was born August 8, 1942 to Philip and Ethel (Riley) Hendges. He grew up in Jackson, MI where he graduated from East Jackson High School. Phil was a loving husband for 59 years, father, and beloved papa. He attended Michigan State University and was a Spartan for life. Phil had many gifts, especially his ability to lead and manage people. He successfully led Shell Oil’s Michigan Operations, overseeing production across the state until his retirement in 1991. Phil and his family have had a presence in Northern Michigan for more than 50 years and Phil loved that so many family events and milestones happened at his beloved Lake Leelanau. His family was most important to him, and he was never happier or more proud than when he was with his cherished grandchildren. A Type 1 diabetic, he was very involved in local Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and Type 1 groups. For years he enjoyed golfing with friends and family, being on the water, hosting the annual family Fourth of July reunion, and working on his computer. There was never a mechanical problem that he could not solve. He was a mentor to many friends, family and former employees. Phil believed in being fair and honest; he was always a man of his word. Phil will be remembered for his deep love and commitment to his family. Phil is survived by his loving wife Catherine, son Phillip (Lynn), daughter Christine (Matt) Bartels, and grandchildren Elise, Emmerson and James; sisters Janet (Ron) Middlebrook and Ruth Ann (John) Hawley, and many loved nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends are encouraged to support Phil’s family at visitation and funeral services on July 5, 2022 at Immaculate Conception Church. The funeral service will begin at 11:00am with visitation from 10:00am until the beginning of the service. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) or the Father Fred Foundation. We encourage everyone to consider becoming an organ donor at Gift of Life Michigan. Phil and his family are being cared for by the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Phillip "Phil" Hendges

August 8, 1942 - June 3, 2022