Philip Ivey

Ivey, Philip A. MADISON - Philip A. Ivey, our contagious angel, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 3, 2007, following a brief and courageous journey. Phil was born on March 21, 1923, in Barneveld, the son of Ella and Ernest Ivey. He attended Barneveld Schools where he starred on the basketball team. Phil graduated in 1940 and went on to earn his master plumbing license. He married Agnes McDermott on Aug. 5, 1944. Shortly after their marriage began, Phil was drafted with the 1st Calvary Division to serve in World War II in which he earned a Silver Star for his brave acts. Following the war, Phil returned home and began his 31 year career as a master plumber with Culligan Water Inc. He leaves his legacy of "leakers" with his family. Phil worked as a City of Madison crossing guard for 11 years. He found true joy in time spent with his family. Together they camped, shared endless laughter, spent time at Wild Phils and most importantly shared love. Phil was a self-proclaimed "world champ" in horseshoes and also enjoyed playing cards and watching sports, especially the Packers and Badgers. Phil is survived by his wife of over 62 years, Agnes; children, Sharon (Duane) Acker, Lois (Bob) Gruchow, Patti Richgels, Barb Ivey and Philip Ivey Jr.; grandchildren, Troy, Tanya, Robyn, Lucas, Tricia, Shannon, Amy, Ryan, Colleen, Jessy, Tina, Philip Patrick, and Preston; great-grandchildren, Cammy, Chase, Zoe, Johana and Coltan; brother, Cam (Janet) Ivey, sister, Betty Buss; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Bob Ivey. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 2007, at 2 p.m. at ST BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2450 Atwood Avenue with Monsignor Michael Hippee presiding. Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 6, 2007, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive and also on Wednesday at 1 p.m. until the time of service at the church. Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the Veterans Hospital for all of their wonderful care and also to Bob Gruchow for all of his personal care given to Phil. Tip your horseshoe Champ and let your luck reign down. We love you forever.