Cover photo for Philip John Suedmeyer's Obituary
1943 "Phil" 2023

Philip John Suedmeyer

August 2, 1943 — May 28, 2023

Battle Creek

Philip John Suedmeyer “Sued” “Pops”, 79, passed away on Sunday, May 28th, 2023 at his home on Beadle Lake in Battle Creek, Michigan. He was born on August 2nd, 1943 in Prescott, Wisconsin. He is survived by his brother, Paul Suedmeyer. Phil was preceded in death by his first born, Kristi Suedmeyer. His life will forever be cherished in the lives of his living children, Jennifer Suedmeyer, Austin Suedmeyer, Amber Martens, and his grandchildren, Rachel Suedmeyer-Cowell and Josh Suedmeyer.

Philip was a graduate of Jackson High School and Western Michigan University. He began his career at Climax High School where he taught for 3 years followed by 34 amazing years at Harper Creek High School located in Battle Creek, Michigan. He was a well loved and enthusiastic teacher. Mr. Suedmeyer had a unique approach to teaching civics, history, and politics. He knew how to hold the crowd's attention (whether it was wearing a bikini during a pep assembly, dropping a ton of silverware on the ground while standing on a desk, teaching students how to dine with Phil, being “Double-0 Phil” in the parking lot, taking them on spring breaks, or making them laugh with his fun loving personality.) Phil also made ever lasting memories for his students by planting impatiens at graduation parties. He guided students to think for themselves and be self reliant. This is why he added life skills into his lesson plans. He taught students tax preparation, sewing skills, how to vote, and so much more. He had an ability of sharing his wealth of knowledge in a way that was unforgettable.

Phil was a well respected coach in softball, wrestling, football, basketball, and track. He was a wrestler himself in high school and played in many sports through the years. He was lucky enough to meet his hero, Stan Musial, of the Saint Louis Cardinals, his favorite baseball team.

Sued had the incredible ability to reach people in a deep and positive way; sometimes, with brutal honesty. For Pops, life was about the simple things. A good sunrise or sunset, pinching the dead heads off his flowers, the daily newspaper, sports, scallops, rum, cold beer, dancing, and a good conversation were the staples of his being.

This legend of a man will be missed and admired forever.

A Celebration of Phil's Life will be held Wednesday, June 7th at the Vale Street Venue, 1645 E. Columbia Ave., Battle Creek from 5:00 p.m. until .....!   Everyone who knew and loved Phil is invited to come share their favorite "Sued" "Pops" stories and have a drink on him!  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the family's GoFundMe (https://www.gofundme.com/f/suedmeyer-family).  Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek.  Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.

 

Service Schedule

Past Services

Celebration of Life

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Starts at 5:00 pm (Eastern time)

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