Philip Martin Wasilewski

Philip Martin Wasilewski, 77, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2025 at his home with his loving family by his side.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 14, from 9:00am until 10:00am at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30am on Tuesday, at St. Patrick's Church, with Msgr. Mark Merdian officiating. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.

Philip was born November 3, 1947, in La Salle, IL, to Edmund and Bernice (Pivonski) Wasilewski. He married Sherry Ludwig on February 14, 1970 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Naplate.

Philip attended St. Bede Jr. College and was their last graduate. He went on to attain a Master's degree plus thirty from Northern Illinois University. He worked as an English teacher at Ottawa High School for over 30 years before going to work for the Regional Office of Education as a technology coordinator. In his free time, he enjoyed working with his hands, especially woodworking. He was also extremely musically talented, he played the guitar and sang in several bands including Friends of the Strings, Western Wranglers, and Skippy & the Bandits. He enjoyed bowling with his brother, going fishing at Gull Lake in Wisconsin, and cooking for his family. He was also an avid animal lover and a friend to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sherry Wasilewski; his son, Scott Wasilewski; his sister, Barbara (Ron) Sessler; his sister in law, Norma Wasilewski; his beloved God daughter, Emily Reardon; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and friends; as well as his puppy, Patches and his kitties, Teddy and Jimmy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmund and Bernice; his daughter, Linda Marie Wasilewski; and his brother, David Wasilewski.

Memorials may be directed to the family.