Obituary of Philip Hayes Keesler

Philip (Phil) Keesler, 76, of Damascus, PA, passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2024, at his home. He was born on January 24, 1948, on the family farm to Ainsley and Muriel Keesler. Phil was the devoted husband to Linda (Cole) Keesler for 58 years, after he somehow conned her into falling in love with him following "that first push on the tire swing." He was a loving father to Brenda, Carl, John (Cathy Gill), Rob (Maria De Gennaro), and Greg. Family was paramount to Phil, and he took immense pride in his children and grandchildren, including Dillon (Emily Fuller) and Killian; Karli and Kelli; and great-granddaughter Harper. He instilled a passion for fishing and hunting in his sons, sharing many cherished moments in the outdoors with them. He often said, "it's all about the hunt, not the kill," we believe, in part because he was not that great of a shot and disliked field dressing his own deer. Phil was predeceased by his eldest son, Carl, and was the last remaining of nine siblings, including Ruth, Betty, Ward, Helen, Johnnie, Barbara, Guy, and Kathleen, with whom he shared lifelong bonds. He loved his several nieces and nephews, especially JoAnne (Mike Ristics), who was always there for him and his family, no matter the situation. Phil spent over 50 years as a dedicated mill foreman at Cochecton Mills in Cochecton, NY, where he was respected for his hard work and leadership. Phil also tended bar, was a bus driver and milk truck driver, as well as a sawmill and farm laborer throughout his life. He was a member of the Cochecton Men's Club and very much enjoyed time spent with them. Phil enjoyed many things in life including "both kinds of music- Country and Western." He also loved watching NASCAR and socializing with friends over a few beers, always bringing laughter with his quick wit and favorite saying, "if you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bull****!" His laughter and sense of humor brightened the lives of all who knew him. He was a great "teacher" to his children, often sharing his words of wisdom with them after they did something foolish, saying "I bet you won't do that again" or "Huh, imagine that.." And they will always remember his mantra, "if it isn't broke, don't fix it." In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal service. There will be a celebration of life at a future date. Phil's family invites everyone to honor his memory by fostering a love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing in the next generation. Raise a glass to Phil and celebrate a life filled with love and laughter. His wish for those he left behind was to "not be sad that I'm gone, but be happy that I was here." In lieu of flowers, contributions in Phil's memory can be made to the Damascus Volunteer Ambulance Corp (1290 Cochecton Turnpike, Tyler Hill PA 18469) or the Cochecton Men's Club (P.O. Box 10, Cochecton , Ny, 12726.) Forever in our hearts, and always on our minds. Arrangements are attended by the Arthur A. Bryant Funeral Home 1228 Main St Honesdale, Pa 18431