Phillip “Phil” H. Karner

Phillip “Phil” H. Karner, age 69, of Tecumseh passed away Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 at ProMedica Toledo Hospital with his family by his side.  He was born August 10, 1949 in Monroe, the son of the late Richard Phillip and Elizabeth Edna (Smith) Karner.

Phil graduated from Dundee High School in 1967 and continued his education at Central Michigan University graduating in 1971. After graduating from CMU he then proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1971-1973. He owned and operated August Company in Tecumseh, along with his partner John Damelio for over 30 years and continued after John’s death in 2007. He truly enjoyed floral design and operating his shop, which celebrated over 41 years in Tecumseh this past August.  Phil and John loved traveling for buying trips across the U.S. and were known for their truly unique shop. He also loved all the arts and generously supported the community. Phil cherished his many friendships acting as a caregiver to many.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends making memories.

 
Phil is survived by his sister, Kae (Rick) Addy of Tecumseh; two brothers, Tod (Melanie) Karner of Dundee and Michael (Laura) Karner of McKinney, TX; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.  In addition to his parents and his partner of 35 years John Damelio, he was preceded in death by close friend Nick Handler and by his beloved companions, Hercules and Tillie.

Visitation was held on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 from 2-8 p.m. at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Home. Services for Phil will be private for family only. Entombment will be in the mausoleum in Brookside Cemetery with military honors under the auspices of American Legion Post #34 and VFW Post #4187. Memorial contributions in Phil’s honor may be made to the John Damelio Mausoleum Beautification Fund.

Condolences may be offered to the family at handlerfuneralhomes.com.