David R. Phillips

David R. Phillips, 72, of Brownsville, MN, passed away in his home on Saturday, February 13, 2021. Dave was born on January 18, 1949 to Russel and Lois (Dalsasso) Phillips of Genoa, WI. Dave graduated from Desoto High School in 1967. He then went on to drive truck for over 45 years. He retired from driving for Wal-Mart in 2014. He then found more time to pursue his love of collecting and tinkering with old cars.

His favorite, most recent times were spent at many car auctions and car shows that he would attend with his friends and his son, Matthew. In his earlier years, he loved boating on the Mississippi with his family and traveling on his Harley, touring the country with his wife and their friends Pat and Irene. Dave was always quick to smile and make friends, even with complete strangers. He was known for his patience, kind demeanor, cheerful attitude and willingness to help out others. Dave served his community as a Brownsville Lion for 30 years. He and his ever-present side kick Bella (his black lab) were a fixture around Brownsville. They were inseparable, always going for walks and drives. Most often they were driving up to see his granddaughter, Payton, whom he adored. He and his granddaughter had a special bond reinforced by the times spent together, teaching her important life skills.

Dave is survived by his wife of 50 years Kathleen (Quillin) Phillips, son Matthew (Kristin) and Granddaughter Payton of Brownsville. Mother Lois of LaCrosse, Brother Ronnie of Chaseburg and Brother Ken of Bremerton, WA. Dave was preceded in death by his Father Russel and Sister Judy Hanson.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at the Brownsville Community Center on Saturday, April 24th from 1-4 P.M.

In honor of Dave’s passion for cars, we would like everyone to please bring out their classic or collector cars to celebrate him, because Dave celebrated each day, often reminding us to enjoy life to the fullest, because in his words “we’re only here a short time”.