Master Sergeant Leroy James Philipp, USAF, Retired, 92, of Belleville, IL, born December 1, 1931, in Blue Island, IL, passed away peacefully Saturday, November 30, 2024, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, IL.
Lee was very proud of his years with the U.S. Air Force. In 1956, he was sent to Korea and was line chief on the L20. At Forbes Air Force Base, his assignment gave him experience on the B-17. Lee was assigned to Ubon Air Force Base in Thailand in 1965. He recalled working 9 miles off base assembling bombs. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, he scheduled maintenance on the KC-135 aircraft. He retired from the Air Force in 1969 and settled first in Collinsville and then Belleville. He retired in 1993 from St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, where he continued to use his maintenance skills.
Lee was a man of faith, adored his wife, loved the Air Force and the City of Belleville, and spoke fondly of his years working at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Eva Y., nee Holland, Philipp, whom he married on July 12, 1954, and who died on April 20, 2020; his parents, William Sr. and Amanda, nee King, Philipp; a niece, Carolyn Hardgrave Lederer; and a nephew, Thomas Riley Hardgrave.
Surviving are his niece, Charlotte Hardgrave; and a long list of multigenerational nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Sue Weigers from Saint Peter’s Pastoral Care and longtime family friend, Lore, who provided countless holiday meals and phone call checks. Lore always knew to call after 7:30 a.m. so she didn’t disturb Lee’s prayer time. A big thank you also goes out to friends Steve, Johnnie, and Jeff, who also provided wellness checks over the years. They always seemed to be at the right place at the right time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Cathedral Catholic Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 6, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Memorial services with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 6, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. John Myler officiating.
According to Leroy’s wishes, cremation was held. Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO, at a later date.
