Philip “Phil” Freeland

Philip “Phil” Freeland of Grafton, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, peacefully passed away on Feb. 12, 2024, at Aurora Hospital in Grafton at the age of 89.

Born to Richard and Gertrude (nee Graff) Freeland on March 26, 1934, in the picturesque town of Manistique, Mich., Phil led a fulfilling life surrounded by love, laughter and a zest for the simple joys.

Phil was a man of many accomplishments and roles. After marrying the love of his life, June Roberts, on March 23, 1968, in Port Washington, they embarked on a beautiful journey together. Phil’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate the quaint Sleepy Hollow Hotel in Escanaba, Mich., where he cultivated a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests for over a decade.

Phil proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Phil worked as a machinist at HB Performance in Mequon, Wis. He was admired by his colleagues for his knowledge, work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Phil found solace in the simple pleasures of life. He spent many peaceful hours immersed in putting together intricate puzzles. His love for fishing allowed him to connect with nature, finding solace and tranquility along serene lakes and rivers. Whenever the sound of a hockey game reached his ears, Phil’s eyes would light up with excitement, as he was an avid fan of the sport.

Phil is survived by his wife June of Grafton and his two sons, Chris (Michele) of Escanaba, Mich., and Shawn (Kathy) Freeland of Townsend.

He is further survived by two granddaughters, Paighe and Madison, his brothers Oran (the late Karol) Freeland of Sun Prairie and Merideth “Jake” (Netta) Freeland of Port Washington, his sister Yvonne (the late Robert) Jahnke of Marion, Wis., nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Kim Mae and his brother Ken (the late Betty) Freeland.

Funeral services for Phil will be celebrated on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Grand Avenue United Methodist Church, Port Washington. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m., with the service to follow at 11 a.m. Pastor David Guse will preside over the service.

Phil will be laid to rest at Garden of Rest Cemetery in Escanaba, Mich.

Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is honored to serve the Freeland family.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.