Skip to content

June 1, 1938 - February 3, 2025

In loving memory ~

Philip Albert Adams, 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep in Vernon, BC on February 3, 2025, leaving behind a life of service and creative passion.

Born on June 1, 1938, in Ipswich, England, Philip 'Phil' Adams joined the British Military as a young man. While stationed in Barrie, ON, Phil met the love of his life, Eileen Yamada. After immigrating to Canada in 1961, he continued his military service with the Canadian Military. He held the position of Master Warrant Officer (MOW) and retired honourably in 1989.

Eileen and Phil were married for 40 beautiful years and were blessed with five children - Debbie, Linda, Sue, Grant, and Shawn. The family travelled all over Canada as part of Phil's military service including Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick as well a brief time abroad in Germany.

His retired life was filled with creative hobbies. Phil was an avid gardener and grew everything from fruit trees to flowers. His life was filled with nature and art. He was a remarkable painter, ceramics creator, crafting stunning nature scenes on canvas and clay. He also enjoyed macrame and paper tole, and his home is filled with the work of his hands. Phil also enjoyed being outside in nature through salmon and fly-fishing, golfing, hunting, and travel. He continued to serve his community by volunteering in the kitchen at Hospice House in Vernon, BC.

Phil is pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Eileen, and his son, Shawn. He is survived by his loving family: his daughters Debbie (Jim), Linda (Darwin), Sue, and son Grant (Robin), along with his grandchildren Robin (Amanda), Heather, Krystal (Jon), Philip, Olivia (Nick), Kennedy, Justin and Bethany, as well as his great grand-children Austin, Maisie, and Keona. His loyal schnauzer, Buddy, was a faithful companion until the end.

When asked "what makes your life meaningful," he responded, "loving nature through my art." That sentence perfectly sums up the life of Phil Adams. He will be remembered fondly for his life of service to his country and community and for his wealth of creativity.

His family would like to thank the many nurses from Interior Health who provided in-home care for Phil over the last several years. The family would also like to thank Phil's best friend, Gord Johnstone for his support and friendship over the years.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for donations to be made to Hospice House where Phil volunteered for many years and received end of life care. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.



Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.