1932
Philip Melvin Wuori
2024
Philip Melvin Wuori
April 20, 1932 — March 4, 2024
Marshall
Philip was a proud Finnish American, and studied both Finland, and the history of the early Finnish settlements in the United States.
A Korean War Veteran, Philip served in the 64th Field Artillery Battalion of the 25th Infantry Division, part of the firing batteries in bunkers just a few hundred yards from the 38th parallel. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant and was a member of the VFW Post 4073 in Marshall.
He attended Suomi College in Hancock Michigan before transferring to the University of Michigan where he earned his BA degree. He later completed his MA degree from Western Michigan University.
In 1956, Philip married the love of his life, Leah Marie Koski, daughter of The Reverend Frans and Leah (Keto) Koski. Theirs was a comfortable and selfless love, and they shared their lives with mutual admiration.
Philip was an educator in the Marshall School District for 36 years. He taught History, Government and Economics, primarily to 12th grade students. His unique style and genuine approach to teaching endeared him to many of his students, and he enjoyed meeting with former students in his later years.
Philip was a staunch Christian and devout Lutheran, and attended both St. Mark Lutheran Church in Battle Creek, and Zion Lutheran Church in Marshall. Philip was active in his church, holding numerous office positions as well as serving on many boards. Perhaps his most natural role was that of a greeter, always welcoming others to the house of worship.
Philip and Leah traveled extensively after retiring, enjoying trips throughout the United States, and then numerous cruises. They enjoyed learning about the cultures and history of the native lands they visited, and some of their favorite cruises took them to the Black, Mediterranean, and Caribbean Seas, Alaska, South America, Hawaii and throughout Europe. Italy lured them back a few times, and there were treasured trips to Finland, where their ability to read and speak the language could be fully displayed.
He also enjoyed reading, gardening, and following the exploits of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was an animal lover and was a favorite Grand pup to the numerous dogs and cats within the family.
Philip is survived by his loving wife, Leah Marie of Marshall, Michigan, his children; Lisa (Dr. Dennis) VanWormer of Ada, Michigan, John (Valerie) Wuori of Sturgis, Michigan and Thomas (Paula) Wuori of Traverse City, Michigan, his daughter in law: Cindy Wuori of Coldwater, Michigan, his grandchildren: Tyler (Nina) VanWormer of London, England, Chelsea (Matthew) Thomason of Novi, Michigan, Dylan (Ellen Anderson) VanWormer of Royal Oak, Michigan, Taylor Wuori of Coldwater, Michigan, Hayley (Robert) Calvert of Lowell, Michigan, Danielle (Craig) Flores of Caledonia, Michigan, Trevor Wuori of Sturgis, Michigan, Kira (Sean Hasso) Wuori of Palatine, Illinois, Dane Wuori of Traverse City, Michigan and Connor (Taylor) Wuori of Rochester Hills, Michigan, his great grandchildren: Landon Whitbeck, Jack VanWormer, Sophia Flores, Noah Flores and Philip Thomason, his siblings: James Wuori of Rochester Hills, Michigan and Darlene (Allen) Salmi of Rapid River, Michigan.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Paul Wuori, his brother, Stanley Wuori and his sister-in-law Kathie Wuori.
Visitation for Philip will take place on Friday, March 15, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 723 US Hwy 27 N Marshall, Michigan 49068.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11:00 am at Zion Lutheran Church 135 Green St. Marshall, Michigan 49068 with Reverend Anthony Voltattorni officiating. Visitation will start at 10:00 am at the church prior to the service. Interment with military honors will be held Friday, March 22, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Ft. Custer National Cemetery 15501 Dickman Rd. Augusta, Michigan 49012.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Zion Lutheran Church (135 Green St. Marshall, Michigan 49068).
Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Philip Melvin Wuori, please visit our flower store.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Visitation
Friday, March 15, 2024
5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services
Visitation
Saturday, March 16, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Zion Lutheran Church
Memorial Service
Saturday, March 16, 2024
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
Zion Lutheran Church
Graveside Service
Friday, March 22, 2024
1:00 - 1:30 pm (Eastern time)
Ft. Custer National Cemetery
Guestbook
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