LOUISE PHILIPPI, age 98 of Grand Rapids.
Our mother Louise, leaves behind a legacy of tremendous love, generosity, kindness, and faith in God. Her warm smile sense of humor and positive attitude were her tools of encouragement for family and friends. Born in Toledo, OH on September 26, 1915 she was the fourth child of seven born to immigrant parents, George and Mary Nassar, who instilled in their children an exceptional work ethic and a “can do” attitude. She was very proud that she lived a few blocks from a boy named Amos Jacbos who later took his brothers’ names to become Danny Thomas. After highschool Mom worked at Hostess Bakery for several years. During WWII she worked for the United States Government as a secretary at a weapons testing facility. Also during WWII she met her future husband Albert Philippi on a blind date. They married January 27, 1946 and Dad brought her to Grand Rapids where they raised their three daughters; Eileen, Barbara, and Evelyn. Mom was our playmate, advisor, cheerleader, and friend; she was so very proud of us. As we grew older, Mom found work at Wurzburgs and the Jenison Meijer where she worked for over thirty years, retiring at the age of 79. Along with her parents she is predeceased by her husband of 51 years Albert; her three older brothers, Abe, Toufic, and James Nassar; and sister, Elsie Elliott. She is survived by her daughters, Eileen Adolphson, Barbara (David) Walsh, Evelyn Philippi (John Barfuss); grandchildren, Ryan (Melissa) Adolphson, Nathan (fiancé Ashley Johnson) Adolphson, John (Jessica) Walsh, Michael (Elissa) Walsh, Evan and Tommy Barfuss. She adored her six great grandchildren; they are, Olivia and Samuel Adolphson, Ella Walsh, Jack, Andi and Max Walsh; two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Saba, Mrs. Evelyn Zogaib, of Toledo, OH; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 24 11:00 a.m. at St. Nicholas Orthodox, 2250 East Paris, Grand Rapids. Fr. Daniel Daly officiating. Interment Rosedale Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday 2-5:00 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. with Trisagion Service at 8:00 p.m., at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids and one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.