It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our unforgettable Dad, Dane Richard Phillips. On September 12th, dad took his untamable spirit to the next level, when he unexpectedly left this world peacefully, in his sleep. Dad promised us he would live forever, but somehow managed to leave us far too soon. He left behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and stories that will be told for generations to come. "The Man, The Myth, The Legend” was born on September 30, 1956, in Elmira NY, to Donald and Florence Phillips. He is predeceased by his parents, his older brother Darrell Phillips, and the mother of his children, Karen Dean Phillips. Dane leaves behind four pieces of his heart, his girls. Amy Barron (Joe Barron), Melissa Wood (Keith Wood), Julie Phillips (his favorite) and Jamie Phillips (John Wright). His eight grandchildren were the greatest joy of his life. Elissa, Sophie, Claire, Aniya, John Michael, Diana, Declan Richard, Adelyn, and his favorite grand-dog, Sunny. Dane also leaves behind his partner in crime, and life-long friend, Billy Bob Nobel. They met in kindergarten and shared over 65 years of unforgettable memories. He will also never be forgotten by his many beloved nieces, nephews, and their children, who all loved spending time with their “Grandpa Dane”. Dane is also survived by his sister Donna and her husband Ronnie Moon. 

Dane graduated from Horseheads High School and kicked off his lifelong “work hard, play hard” career at Anchor Glass. He later brightened many people's days by delivering for UPS, where he worked for 25 years. After retiring from UPS, he went to National Tractor Trailer School, where he acquired his CDL and boasted about being at the top of his class. He used his CDL to start his retirement job with Coach USA. Dane (aka Ricky Bobby) loved his daily run from Binghamton to New York City. His days were filled with what filled his heart up most- helping people in need and making them laugh as much as he could along the way. His dedication to his hard-working morals, was unmatched. 

He had a natural ability to take care of others, make people smile and was never afraid to be himself. He was an adventurer who believed in experiencing all that life had to offer. If you were lucky enough to know Dane, you knew he was a one-of-a-kind man with a wild spirit, a generous heart, and a love that ran deep. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back, without a second thought. His generosity knew no bounds, he had a way of making sure the people around him were taken care of before ever thinking about himself. His larger-than-life personality left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. The one & only “Great Dane” lived to take his kids camping, on bike rides, & for long dirt road drives in his younger years. 

Later in life, he enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren, cheering them on at sporting events, and sitting around a family table sharing stories until tears of laughter filled everyone’s eyes. Rest easy Dad. We’ve got it from here, because you spent your life preparing us for not only the great days, but the hard ones, & everything in between. Your heart of gold will live on through us, and we will spend the rest of our days passing your wisdom, laughter, & love on to your grandchildren. “All my love always, say your prayers, & keep making me proud.” -Your daughters.

 A funeral service to honor & remember Dane will be held on Saturday September 19th at St Mary’s Church at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, Dane would want you to spend time with your family making memories that will be talked about for years to come. In remembrance of Danes love for Hawaiian shirts, we welcome you to wear one and celebrate that unique love with us. Heaven just got a little rowdier and a lot more fun!!