MCFARLAND / STOUGHTON - Phillip Harold Oren, 89, passed away at Stoughton Hospital on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by love, laughter, adventure, and service to others. Phil was born on March 4, 1937, to Harold and Elizabeth Oren. He attended Madison Public Schools through eighth grade before his family moved to Stoughton. It was there that Phil put down roots and formed many lifelong friendships.

Phil's fascination with airplanes began in childhood. His parents often took him to the airport just to watch planes take off and land. At age 17, with his parents' permission, he joined the Air National Guard at Truax Field, enlisting full-time after graduating from high school. He proudly served for 38 years and often said there was never a day he didn't look forward to going to work.

In 1957, Phil married his high school sweetheart, Karen Cook. Together they built a wonderful life over 53 years of marriage, raising a family, traveling the world, and creating lasting memories with countless friends.

Phil embraced life outdoors. As a boy, he was a speed skating champion at Tenney Park, and throughout his life he enjoyed hunting, skiing, golfing, bowling, and spending time "Up North." He treasured neighborhood gatherings with friends on Highway AB, bowled for many years in Stoughton and McFarland, and looked forward to winters spent with dear friends in Panama City Beach.

Giving back to his community was simply part of who Phil was. He ushered at Christ Lutheran Church, served barbecue at the Lions Club Memorial Day events, coached Little League, volunteered at Kegonsa State Park installing birdhouses and fences, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a proud member of the Kegonsa Masonic Lodge and delighted parade crowds as a member of the Zor Shrine Wranglers ATV squad.

Phil and Karen shared a passion for travel, eventually opening Chalet Travel Agency in Stoughton, where they introduced countless travelers to destinations around the globe. After retiring from military service, Phil combined work with another favorite pastime, spending the next 22 years managing the golf cart fleet at Evansville Golf Club.

Although he loved aviation, travel, and the outdoors, Phil's greatest joy was his family and friends. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. His warmth, quick wit and generous spirit made every gathering brighter. He taught those around him to be adventurous, stay curious, work hard, and treasure the people they love.

Phil is survived by his daughters, Kristi Everson and Susan (Rick) Selvey; his grandchildren, Kelsie Everson, Lynne (Max) Gruneberg, Connor (Suki) Selvey, and Wade (Amanda) Selvey; his great-grandson, Thomas John "TJ" Gruneberg; his brother, Peter (Terri) Oren; his sister-in-law, Carolyn Slaney; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen; his parents, Harold and Elizabeth Oren; and his sister, Linda (Kenneth) Jenkins.

A memorial service will be held at CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH, 700 County Highway B, Stoughton, at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026, with Pastor Paula Geister-Jones presiding, followed by Military Honors at the church. Burial with Masonic Rites will take place at Town of Dunn Burying Ground. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors, Ducks Unlimited or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Phil's kindness, humor, and love for life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Gunderson Stoughton

Funeral & Cremation Care

1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.

(608) 873-4590

Phillip H Oren

March 04, 1937 - July 01, 2026

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