PHILLIP LOUIS KOCHAN

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PHILLIP LOUIS KOCHAN

Phil passed away unexpectedly on the morning of August 11, 2025.

Phil was predeceased by his wife Tania. He is survived by his daughters, Debbie Reed and Kari Herbert, son Phillip Kochan, granddaughter Ashley Reed, and his first wife Linda. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Gerry, Dennis, Tim and Heather Demetrioff, his cousin Patricia Hunter, a niece and nephews, and a circle of loyal friends.

Phil was born in Winnipeg on January 27, 1941. As a young man, Phil wanted to see the world and enlisted in the U.S. Army. This took him to Germany, Japan, and to combat in Vietnam. After his discharge, Phil continued to live in the United States for a few years, returning to Winnipeg in the mid-1970s. He married Tania in 1977. Phil worked in construction before returning to school and receiving certification in carpentry. He then worked as a self-employed carpenter. One of his projects was constructing his own home in Manigotagan, Manitoba.

Manigotagan allowed Phil to engage in activities that he loved, particularly gardening, fishing, hunting, and trapping. Phil was known in the community for helping others. He helped with building and renovation projects, shared produce from his garden and canning from his pantry, visited friends who could not get about and drove them to appointments. Phil would also host holiday dinners for friends who otherwise would be on their own. Phil’s charity was not forgotten, and as Phil’s health declined, friends stepped in to help him. In particular, the efforts of Rick and Tina Voss, Dave and Robbie Desautels, and Alicia Gauthier allowed Phil to stay in the home and the place that he loved.

In accordance with Phil’s wishes, cremation has taken place and Phil’s ashes will be scattered along his favourite trap line.

Tributes: www.alternacremation.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 16, 2025