Tribute

In Loving Memory ~

It is with broken hearts and devastation that we announce the sudden passing of Philip Mayea. Philip leaves behind his parents Coleen & Harold Mayea, (sister) Sarah, (her son) Tyler, (brother) Steven & (wife) Melissa, (their daughter) Constance, (their son) Jonas, along with many aunts, uncles & cousins. He leaves behind his only son, Ryland, the love of his life, the most important person to Philip’s world. Ry & Phil shared a special bond that went beyond father and son. Phil lived and breathed to see his son’s smile. He was an exceptional father, always having patience and kindness for him. Their favourite times were shooting hoops, hockey, bike riding, swimming, and video games.

Phil loved sports, his favourite teams were the Raptors and the Blue Jays. Teaching Ry who to cheer for, with jersey shirt and hat on, couldn’t talk yet, but he could cheer! In B.C., rooting for the Blue Jays would be normal, but for the fact that Ry was born in Alberta and Phil was working out there at this time. It caused some friction with his work crew, but Phil always laughed off the razing or had a quick retort for them. Phil spent most of his adult life working in Alberta for the Oil and Gas Industry and is fondly remembered by his crew mates as someone they could count on and had the utmost respect for. He also became a professional driver out there and again earned the respect of his fellow workers, who knew Phil as a hard worker, loyal, kind, and who had a great sense of humor.

Phil was born in Duncan coming from pioneer families in the Cowichan Valley, both his maternal side as well as his paternal side were here by the 1860s. He was raised and went to Chemainus schools where he gave a few teachers several white hairs. I can’t even say gray hair as that would be making an understatement. There might have been some with a little less hair, as well. I think the teachers really liked him as there were great smiles on their faces when he graduated.

Family request no formal services. In lieu of flowers, donations at any food bank would be appreciated.

We would like to thank all the families, Phil’s lifelong friends, some going back to kindergarten years, who have reached out to our family. Your condolences and kindness have been overwhelming for us. Steven is recording the stories and memories from family and friends to give to Phil’s son.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.