Ronald "Phil" Tewell, loving husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, September 22nd at the age of 87.

He was born on July 8, 1935 in Ashton, South Dakota to his parents Pearl P. Tewell and Nellie Norwood.

The wheat harvest of 1965 brought Phil to Kansas working as a custom cutter. Through mutual friends, Phil met Judy K. Whitaker by chance and they joined one another for lunch. Their conversation created the foundation for a life of love together. Phil and Judy were married on November 20, 1966 at the First United Methodist Church in Wellington, KS.

In the summer of 1967, Phil and Judy welcomed their first child into their lives. Their daughter Teri Lynn was born on June 7th. To provide a better life for his family, Phil took an opportunity to become a rancher in Fall River, KS. On December 21, 1968 their second daughter Jana Marie was born.

Throughout the years Phil continued to work hard as a grain elevator operator at CO-OP and as a large vehicle tire repairman. In 1983, health conditions disabled Phil from working. From that moment on, Phil used his strength and energy to devote care to his family and friends.

Taking regular family trips were of high importance to Phil. He would take every opportunity to visit his home of South Dakota to reunite with his family. When he wasn't on the road, you could find Phil hunting, fishing, taking walks, playing cards or spending time with family pets.

Phil's love didn't end with his family. Those who got to know him, knew him as "Tater." A nickname that had been passed down to him from his father. He loved having conversations with everyone he met and to make others crack a smile.

Phil is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters. Survived by his loving wife, Judy of 56 years. Daughters, Teri (John) Arredondo and Jana (Ross) Brown. Two grandchildren, Devin (Summer) Brown and Taylor Brown. Two great-grandchildren, Escher and Isla Brown. As well as many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at 10:00 A.M.  Pastor Isaac Chua will officiate.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday, September 26, 2022 from 1:00 – 7:00 P.M. The family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M.

A memorial has been established with the Wellington Humane Society in lieu of flowers.  Contributions can be mailed or left at the funeral home.

Frank Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

To leave condolences or sign our guest book, please visit our website at www.frankfuneralhome.net