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He always enjoyed all sports and played many neighborhood baseball games, and later his love for football became a lifelong enjoyment. He attended school in Centralia and graduated from Centralia High School in 1976. He had moved with his parents to Virginia City, Montana, prior to graduation but returned to graduate with his many friends. He was always so well-liked, and the girls especially loved his dimples!
He returned to Montana in 1976, where he spent the remainder of his life. Philly, as he was known since childhood, enjoyed the outdoors and animals and quickly fell in love with all Montana had to offer.
Philip worked alongside his father as a roofer and later as an underground miner. He was a proud father to Shaylee Taylor and Brock Mason.
Philip was loved by everyone in Virginia City, and his presence was felt throughout the Madison and Ruby valleys. Anyone who spent more than a few minutes talking with him would quickly hear about his love of underground mining, the Seattle Seahawks and, most importantly, his children and family. Many people affectionately called him a “dog whisperer” because of the special connection he had with animals.
He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back — and his pants, too, if you needed them. No one felt like a stranger after talking with Philip.
He had a deep love for the mountains, animals and, of course, Seattle sports. He was a pillar of the Virginia City community, and his larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed, but those who knew him know his spirit will always be hanging around the Pioneer Bar.
Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Philip E. Mason Sr. and Rosalyn I. Mason; grandparents, Edward and May Mason and Earl Sullivan and Edna Pinsky; brothers, Jerry Mason and James Mason; brothers-in-law, John Mitchell and Steve Gress; and sisters, Sharon Bovey and Valerie Mason.
He is survived by his children, Brock Mason and Shaylee Taylor; sisters, Kathleen Mitchell and Coze’ (Debbie) Gress; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Philly will always live in our hearts and will be missed immensely by his family and friends!
As he always said, “Fair winds!”
We will see you again, and we will rejoice in our reunion.
A celebration of life will be held at the Pioneer Bar on Aug. 23 at 3 p.m. A pig roast will be provided, and guests are invited to bring their favorite potluck side dish. Live music will be provided by Rob n Lonely. All are welcome to join us in celebrating the life of an incredible man.
Another celebration of life will be held at Moose Lodge No. 1109, 1400 Grand Ave., Centralia, Washington, on Sept. 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. Please join us in remembering Philly. Bring your favorite memory of Philly and your favorite potluck dish.
Philly, you will always be in our hearts and on our minds. You will never be forgotten!
