Philip R Wallander

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Philip Roy Wallander, who departed this life peacefully on February 7, 2025 at the age of 85.

Phil was born on February 28, 1939 in Los Angeles, California. He joined the US Air Force in 1956 and was stationed at Westover Air Force Base, where he served his country with honor while working as a jet mechanic on B-52s. In 1959 he met the love of his life, Dorothy, and they were married on October 22, 1960. The following year they welcomed their daughter, Lori. They created a loving home in Springfield surrounded by family and good friends.

In 1979, Phil and Dottie built their dream house in the beautiful hills of Monson, Massachusetts. Phil worked as a machine repairman for Package Machinery and later Cincinnati Milacron, where he retired after 25 years.

Phil’s love and pride was his family and friends and he especially enjoyed spending time with them at their charming beach cottage in Onset, Massachusetts. He was a loving and dedicated father and grandfather, never missing a game, concert, or special occasion in their lives. Phil was an avid sailor and found joy in captaining many boats throughout the years. In addition to sailing, Phil and Dottie also enjoyed walking, biking, hiking, gardening and listening to music, especially the Blues.

Phil and Dottie also traveled extensively. Some of their favorite destinations included Florida, St. Croix, Hawaii, Alaska, Italy, France, and many National Parks.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of 65 unforgettable years, Dorothy (Jarosz), his beloved daughter Lori Isler-Wallander and her husband Loren, and their children Russell Philip and Jessica Elizabeth. He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Kathryn Wallander, and his two younger brothers Gary and Melvin. Phil also was preceded in death by his daughter Sharon, and leaves behind her children Jillian, Brett, and Gregory. He also will be missed by cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In 2021 Phil participated in a Triluminate Pivotal heart study at Beth Israel Hospital. He was the very first person in New England to receive their tricuspid valve clip. Thanks in part from his effort, the device was approved by the FDA in 2024 which expanded its use. We are so proud of his ground-breaking contribution to medical science and feel this device extended his life.

Phil’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to gather at The Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery 1390 Main St Agawam MA on Friday, February 14, 2025 at 2pm for a Committal Service with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial, made in Phil’s name, either to the Dakin Humane Society at Dakinhumane.org or Dakin Humane Society, P.O. Box 6307 Springfield, MA 0110 or to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at BIDMC.org/giving.