Phillip Arthur Muske

Phillip A. Muske, age 82, took his last breath on April 15th, surrounded by his beloved wife and family. Phillip was one of six children, born on May 19, 1943, in La Moure, North Dakota, to Arthur and Evelyn Muske. He married his high school sweetheart, Alice Scheiwiller, and this past year the two celebrated 61 years of marriage, a love story that never wavered. Phil served his country with distinction in the Vietnam War as a medevac helicopter gunner, protecting the wounded and rescuing countless fellow Marines. His bravery was on full display when he was shot down and spent 24 hours in enemy territory before being rescued. Ever the proud and humble man, he kept this from his children until they reached high school. His courage and dedication were honored with 3 medals for his service, and he was honorably discharged in 1968. After returning home, Phil attended Clark College, where he earned a Millwright certification. He went on to work at Alcoa for over 20 years and finished his career as Maintenance Director at ACPC, a career defined by the same quiet determination he brought to everything in life. Phil was a man of many passions. Fishing was perhaps his greatest joy, and anytime the opportunity arose, he would head out with his wife and family by his side. If you ever brought up fishing in conversation, you had better settle in because his knowledge was vast, his stories were plentiful, and his enthusiasm was contagious. In a beautiful and fitting farewell, last fall he unknowingly went on what would be his final fishing trip, and in true Phil fashion, he not only caught the most fish, he caught the biggest one too. He was also a devoted Gonzaga basketball fan who loved nothing more than March Madness, even making the trip twice to cheer on the Bulldogs in person when they reached the Sweet 16. Above all else, Phil's family was everything to him. He was his children's and grandchildren's biggest cheerleader, always showing up and always believing in them. He dedicated himself to his community, coaching his children's teams and volunteering countless hours within his church for decades. His legacy lives on through his 3 children and 9 grandchildren, and in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. It was rare to find a man who loved as deeply as Phil. He had a servant's heart and a gentle spirit, and nothing brought him greater joy than watching his family thrive. A quiet force, he guided those he loved through the best and worst of times and stood as a true testament to what it means to live and love fully. Phil is survived by the love of his life, Alice Muske; his sons Scott (wife Joy) and Duane (wife Kelly); his daughter Cindy (husband Bob); his 9 grandchildren; his sisters Donetta Jones and Judy Griffee; and his brothers James and Ray Muske. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Evelyn Muske, and his brother Jerry Muske. A Celebration of Phil's Life will be held on July 11th with a picnic and potluck. More information will be posted soon.

Phillip Arthur Muske

May 19, 1943 - April 15, 2026