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Phillip D. Meier

Phillip D. Meier, 88, Woodstock, died Thursday, May 8, 2014, died at JourneyCare Hospice, Woodstock. 

He was born Nov. 4, 1926, to Henry and Doris Meier in Columbia City, Ind., and was the last survivor of seven siblings.

In 1956, he married the love of his life, Bette Marie Knafel.

Raised in Indiana farm country, he was awarded an early high school diploma so he could join the Navy during World War II.  He served as a radio operator on a PBY sea plane, deployed on South Pacific search and rescue patrols.

After the war, he attended business school.  Combining a sharp mind with a will of iron and a strict work ethic, he became a successful salesman and business manager for several water treatment companies.

He and his wife shared their life with her son, Craig, for whom Phil became not only a supportive father, but a respected mentor. Craig ultimately became a partner in the family business.  

As a young family, they moved frequently following Phil’s climb up the corporate ladder. Eventually, his experiences turning unprofitable companies into profitable ones led him to go into business for himself.  In 1967, the Meiers purchased what is now Quality Water Conditioning in Woodstock.  After 46 years, the business is still going strong – a testament to Phil’s intelligence, integrity and abilities.

He was a member of several civic and fraternal organizations.  He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as the Brotherhood of the Scottish Rite.  He also belonged to the Woodstock Elks and the Rockford Tebala Shriners. He was a Freemason for 54 years.  He truly treasured those with whom he shared those associations.

Survivors include his son, Craig Grant; daughter-in-law, Karon Grant; granddaughter, Karri Grant; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife in 2009. He was devastated and never fully recovered from the void left from her death.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at St. Mark’s Masonic Lodge, 789 McHenry Ave. 

Donations may be made to St. Mark’s Masonic Lodge, 789 McHenry Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098, or JourneyCare Hospice Center, 527 W. South St., Woodstock, IL 60098. Memorials may be given to JourneyCare Hospice, 405 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, IL 60010. Arrangements were made by Windridge Funeral Home.

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