Albert "Al" Philion

Albert "Al" Philion, 84, of Galion, passed away on December 7, 2024, at Avita Health System - Galion Hospital leaving behind a legacy that will forever echo through the fairways of life.

Al was born in Detroit, Michigan, on September 27, 1940, to the late Arthur and Diane (Blais) Philion. Albert would begin his lucky streak in life when he met and later married Janet (Johnson) on September 6, 1969, and they shared 55 years of loving marriage, Janet survives in Granville.

He was affectionately known as Abbie, Fat Albert, and Big Al to his closest friends, but Al's favorite monikers came from those who called him Pop, Dad, and Grandpa.

In 1958, Al graduated from St. Benedict High School in Detroit and later attended Michigan State University. Al would spend most of his career serving as the Facilities Manager at First Federal Bank of Ohio, where he was known for his dedication and hard work, retiring in 2002 after over 20 years of service.

Al was a one-of-a-kind character, he was known for being goofy, stubborn, and frugal by those closest to him. He was a foodie, before the term was popularized, with his all-time favorites being lamb roast, cabbage rolls, mac & cheese, fish & chips, and his own personal crepes. When he was not thinking about food or cooking, Al was diligently working on adding to his many prized collections, including coins, golf balls, and hats.

A man of strong sports allegiances Al was a passionate and dedicated fan of the Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Red Wings, and Detroit Lions, consistently following their games and showing unwavering support. Al was an all-around wealth of sports knowledge, he was always ready to discuss the latest game, share his expert analysis or delve deep into his bag of facts to name the unsung hero from a meaningless game from years past. His love of golf encompassed playing the game to caddying for Gardner Dickinson, sharing stories about Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, and following the careers of his favorite Cobra Puma golfers.

Al was known for his loving nature, loyalty, and the good fortune he seemed to carry throughout his life. A good fortune that not only would be on his side when he met his loving wife Janet, but that also helped the wind blow just right at Valley View Golf Course where he would accomplish three witnessed (which he was sure to point out) hole-in-ones through the years.

He was a faithful member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Galion and was involved in the Knights of Columbus #1234 of Galion and the Loyal Order of Moose #303 of Galion. Al also had an unshakable love for Motown music and knew how to dance to it like no one else when Marvin Gaye began to play. He was no vocalist, but his rendition of O'Canada will forever be etched into the memories of those who had the privilege of hearing Al proudly belt it.

In addition to his wife Janet, Al's memories will forever be cherished by his children: Carrie (John) Jarvis of Pataskala, Bob (Jenny) Philion of Acton, MA., and Amy (Joe) Kaluzne of Millersport; siblings: Mary Jane Sarchian of Michigan, Nancy Wojcik of Florida, Janet (Rick) Surdu of Michigan, Father Richard Philion of Texas, Caron Connolly of Texas, and Don (Sharon) Philion of Michigan; and grandchildren: Abby and Ian Jarvis, Jackson and Grace Philion and Vinny Kaluzne.

In addition to his parents, Al was met at Heaven's fairway by his brothers: Dutch Philion and Norman Philion, and sister: Virginia Rozman.

Friends may call on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 303 Portland Way North, Galion. A Mass of Christian Burial with Father Paul Fahrbach and Deacon Greg Kirk officiating will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 1:00pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 135 N. Liberty St. Galion, Ohio. A celebration of Al's life will follow Mass at the Activities Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church of Galion, donations can be made online at www.saintjosephgalion.org, under the giving tab.

Those wishing to share a memory of Al or send condolences to the Philion family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.

The Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, Galion, is honored to serve the family of Albert "Al" Philion.

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