Phillip DeVries

Phillip “Phil” DeVries, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on Sunday, November 30, surrounded by his family. A calm, easygoing, and fun-loving man, Phil was a gentle giant whose life embodied the words:

“Nothing is as strong as gentleness, and nothing is so gentle as real strength.”

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Phil was the son of Joseph and Colleen DeVries, who preceded him, and was also predeceased by his sister, Lorie. He is survived by his siblings Allan, Doug, and Sue.

Phil proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Tennessee before being deployed to Vietnam. After his military service, he returned to Colorado with his family. In 1986, he relocated to Olathe, Kansas, due to a transfer with Ford Motor Company, where he worked for 30 years, retiring as a Security Supervisor.

Phil shared 59 loving years of marriage with his wife, Fathe, and was devoted to his children: Rick (wife Lisa; children Dylan and Audrey; Dylan’s wife Bailey; great-grandchildren Easton and Sloane) and Karon (husband Al; children Riley, Grayson and Ally). To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Papa.”

Phil’s influence and love touched countless lives, and his legacy lives on through the family and friends who were fortunate to know him. Words cannot fully capture his role and impact, but he will always be remembered for his love, gentleness, and quiet strength.

A series of services will be held to celebrate Phil’s life. On December 11, 2025, there will be a visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, a short service will follow the visitation, both taking place at the Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home located at 14275 S Black Bob Rd, Olathe, Kansas. A graveside Military Honors service will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canine Companions in Phil’s memory. Canine Companions