KENNETH NORMAN PHILLIPS -

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KENNETH NORMAN PHILLIPS 1907 - 2001 Peacefully and joyfully, Ken Phillips passed into the presence of his Lord on Saturday, September 8, 2001 at the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg, in the presence of his loving daughter Pearl. He is survived by his children and their spouses, David (Cathie), Dorothy (Jack Reimer), Pearl Thomas and Don (Sylvia) also six grandchildren and many relatives in England and Canada. Ken Norman Phillips was born 27 July, 1907 at Bromley, Kent, England. He came to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour in his early teens, becoming an earnest Christian worker among children and adults. He started to preach at the age of 14. In 1937 he enrolled at Cliff College, Derbyshire for training evangelists, sailing for Kenya, East Africa with the Africa Inland Mission. In 1940, he enlisted for War service in the East Africa Command and in 1942 was recommended for the Chaplaincy Department. He was ordained into the Baptist ministry in 1942 serving as an army Chaplain in East Africa and Somalia for two years. Released from military duties in 1945, Ken married Hazel Hill, a fellow missionary, serving together as general missionaries. In 1952, Ken suffered a severe attack of polio but, in answer to much prayer, was brought back to full health. Then followed one of their most fruitful ministries from 1954-1957 with prison evangelism which Ken related in his book, "From Mau Mau to Christ". From 1957 to 1968 they conducted extensive Christian literature ministry, publishing evangelical books and Christian magazines in Swahili and a dozen other languages. As Director of the Missions Literature Department, Ken traveled to many parts of Kenya and Tanzania. For five years he was seconded for part time work as Literature Secretary of the Christian Council of Kenya. Retiring to Winnipeg in 1968, Ken and Hazel continued their ministerial duties. Their home was always open to all who came to seek help or fellowship. Their commitment to the Trinitarian Bible Society proved to be a fruitful endeavour in their retirement years. Ken was an avid reader and writer, authoring four books, but his favourite pastime was Bible Study and telling others about the Lord Jesus Christ his Saviour and Lord. When Hazel died in 1997, Ken moved into the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg where he has been lovingly cared for by the devoted staff. Ken recently enjoyed celebrating his 94 Birthday. He has enjoyed daily activities and Sunday services, participating fully, heartily singing his favourite hymns! He has relished many, many visits from family members and friends and especially from his loving and devoted daughter, Pearl, who was his constant caregiver and companion. Even though he was limited with eyesight and hearing for the last few years, he continued to recite Scripture on a daily basis. His favourite Bible text was "The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin." I John 1:9. With his last breath, he strongly confirmed Gods promise that "all things work together for good to them that love God. "Rom 8:28. With these words on his lips, he received his Heavenly Home Call. Friends may call at the Chapels on Friday, September 14 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. A service to celebrate his life will be held at Church of the Way, 450 Lilac St., at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 15. Donations may be made to the Africa Inland Mission, 1641 Victoria Park Ave., Scarborough, ON, M1R 1P8, or to a charity of your choice. THOMSON FUNERAL CHAPELS 783-7211

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2001