C. Philip “Phil” Hepkema, 81, of Catawba Island, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 18, 2025. He was born on April 11, 1944, in Lakewood, OH to Christian Philip and Janet (Brunink) Hepkema.

Phil graduated from John Marshall High School in Cleveland in 1962, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing from The Ohio State University. During his college years, he was a proud member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Phil also honorably served his country as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era.

Professionally, Phil worked for many years with Ohio Bell/AT & T. He also found great joy in his time on the water as a longtime fishing charter captain aboard his boat, After U. Known to many as “Captain Phil,” he built lasting friendships through his passion for fishing.

A true Ohioan at heart, Phil was a devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. He was a nature enthusiast who rescued animals and fostered kittens, and he cherished every opportunity to be outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, or simply spending time on the lake. He especially looked forward to gatherings with his fellow fishermen at Diana’s Deli in Port Clinton, where they met regularly throughout the week.

Phil will be remembered for his humility, sharp sense of humor, and deep devotion to faith and friendship. He was a faithful attendee of The Chapel in Port Clinton and a church in Florida, and he remained committed to daily devotional time. Phil found a peaceful happiness, which he described as contentment or being content. Phil is survived by his loving fiancée, Joan Mericle; his daughter, Dana Corsi; and his sisters, Judith (Bruce) Bruinsma and Gayle (John) Rieber. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Judith Hepkema.

A private Celebration of Life will be held for family and close friends. Interment will take place at Catawba Island Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Phil’s honor may be made to the Ottawa County Humane Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are being handled by Gerner-Wolf-Walker Funeral Home Crematory, Port Clinton, OH. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.