George Phillip Saunsaucie, whom we knew as Phillip, died at his home in Langley of congestive heart failure on June 20, 2007. He celebrated his 70th birthday with his family in April.

Phillip was born on April 18, 1937 in Urich, Mo. the eldest son of James and Roberta Saunsaucie. His fascination with flight and airplanes led him to Wichita State University where he graduated with honors in aeronautical engineering.

His career with the Boeing Company brought him to Seattle in 1963 with his first wife, Barbara. Their son, Anton, arrived on Aug. 3, 1971. After Barbara’s death in 1979, Phillip and Anton moved to South Whidbey.

Phillip met Carmi at a dance group in 1989 and they married in 1993. After his diagnosis of congestive heart failure a year later, he and Carmi decided to travel by RV and see North America, Canada and parts of Mexico. He loved the RV lifestyle, joining the Escapees RV Club where he developed interests in line dancing, lapidary arts, wood carving and became a Red Cross Disaster Volunteer.

He loved meeting new people and exploring their stories, as well as telling his own. Phillip had a generous, compassionate nature, and a wonderful sense of humor. He studied and embraced Native American spirituality.

Phillip is survived by his wife, Carmi; son, Anton (Kristina); grandsons, Oliver and Ian; stepson, Jeff (Min); granddaughters, Sarah and Joeli; brother, James Lee; and sister, Sue (Larry) Wilt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and stepdaughter, Tammy Roth.

A celebration of Phillip’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 15 at the home of Janet and David Licastro at 5287 S. Langley Road. A potluck dinner will follow.

Memorials may be made to Hospice at Whidbey General Hospital or the organization of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visser Funeral Home, Langley.