Submitted by: Dan Rich

Philip John Treely

Sept. 5, 1911 - Nov. 15, 2007

South Bend Tribune 11/17/2007
MISHAWAKA - Philip John Treely, 96, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 15. Philip began his journey on Earth on September 5, 1911, as the son of John and Francis (Lancaster) Treely.

He was born and raised in Mishawaka and continued his love for his hometown by marrying Marguerite Nadjeck and raising his children in the quiet Indiana town with Midwest values he held so dearly. A simple man of simple means, he worked hard to achieve the American Dream. He was a devoted employee to Uniroyal for over 47 years and knew the value of hard work and a dollar earned. He was a charter member of the DeAmici's Club and is the last of the five founding members to pass.

His children, Phyllis Klosinski (Mike) and Ronald Treely (Shelli) survive; along with three grandchildren, Chris Klosinski (Sherrill), and Kelsey and Phillip Treely; and two great-grandchildren, Krista and Austin Klosinski.

His favorite term of endearment was simply, Grandpa. As a member of the Greatest Generation, Grandpa felt honored to serve his country during World War II as a Navy welder. Until his death, he would not think of going to bed without reading the newspaper in its entirety to keep abreast of world, national, and local news. He was never without an opinion as to why the United States is a great nation and what needs to continue or be changed in order to keep her great. His loyalty to the democratic process was most admired when he changed his travel plans at the age of 92 for the sole purpose of casting his ballot. He knew his best friend was going to vote in opposition of "the best candidate," and wanted to make certain he cancelled out his vote. Grandpa was a proud American. His happiest days were spent at the lake enjoying the scenery and teaching his grandchildren to love and respect the water as he did. He passed along the finer points of water safety as well as how to bait a hook. He always had a word of encouragement as they were learning to ski and wake board. "Don't give up," he would say, "you'll get the feel of the tug and soon you'll have it." and they did. In his later days, he often stayed on shore grilling hamburgers and hot dogs for the hungry appetites water sports created. It brought him great pleasure as they would whiz past waving with one hand and holding onto the rope with the other. It warmed his heart to hear the laughter of his grandchildren after they caught fish, captured turtles, or conquered the white caps of Christiana Lake. Grandpa was a great teacher.

Remembering Grandpa would not be complete without remarks about how he loved Notre Dame - especially the football program. He knew supporting his team was not for the faint of heart and cheered on the Fighting Irish in the good times and the bad. He was a great coach and could easily identify weaknesses from his favorite Saturday afternoon seat - the couch. We're certain he's talking now with other Notre Dame greats’ who have passed and orchestrating divine intervention for a long awaited victory. Your victory has come, Grandpa. Enjoy the games from your well-deserved best seat in the house. Grandpa was a devoted fan. Another favorite pastime of Grandpa's was playing cards. He passed along his winning techniques to all who would listen, especially his grandchildren. He taught them many of life's lessons through the game of Euchre. "Never, ever trump your partner's ace," he would declare, "Have faith that things will work out." He said, "Even if you're not sure of what the outcome might be and you're scared, sometimes you just have to go alone. Learn to depend on yourself." And Grandpa's greatest lesson, "I don't care if the score is 9 to 1, don't ever give up! Stay focused on the game, dig in your heels, play fair and hard. The game's not over yet." His echoes of insight resonate in our hearts. Even without the benefit of a high school diploma, Grandpa's wisdom matched his years and will be reflected upon as his children and grandchildren pass what they've learned from him on to future generations. Grandpa was a brilliant man. Grandpa passed away while a loved one held his hand. He had a smile on his face and softly whispered, "Tell everyone I love them." We love you, too, Grandpa. He moved on with peace in his heart, satisfied that his mission on Earth was complete. We should all be so lucky. As time goes by, the memories of quiet conversations over coffee, watching a good movie with loved ones, and solving life's problems over a glass of wine will be cherished even more by those who wish they had just one more day with this beloved man.

A graveside service for Grandpa Treely was held at St. Joseph Cemetery on Friday November 16, 2007. You can pay tribute to this man by making the lives of others a little brighter. Grandpa would be honored if he were remembered through random acts of kindness, especially to our military personnel. Please consider thanking a veteran or active soldier this holiday season with a card of appreciation. Bubb Funeral Chapel handled arrangements.