Obituary of Phillip Wayne Speece

Phillip "Phil” Wayne Speece died at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center on November 28, 2020 in Duluth, Minnesota at the age of 73.

Phil was born on March 23, 1947 in Long Beach, California to Harold and Mary. He graduated from Meadowlands High School in 1966. He married Rosalee “Rosie” Bertelsen, his high school sweetheart on September 9, 1966. After moving to Keewatin, Minnesota, Phil began working as a union Ironworker. Phil and Rosie moved to Floodwood in 1967. In 1970 they welcomed their first daughter, Cory, into their home, and in 1973, their son, Tony, was born.

His children remember him as a generous, loving, humorous father who was always there to support them.  

Phil was an accomplished Ironworker and he took pride in his work. He was a quick-witted person who loved making people laugh. He especially enjoyed playing practical jokes on his friends and coworkers. He was one of his children’s and grandchildren’s greatest supporters, often in attendance for athletic and school events. He enjoyed sharing his love for hunting with his grandchildren and watching them carry on the tradition. 

Phil was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, and sponsored many people over the years on their journey to sobriety. 

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary T. Speece; brother Raymond Speece, sister Patricia Crammer; and two infant sons. 

He is survived by his wife, Rosalee; children, Corinne (Burt) Suonvieri and Anthony Speece; grandchildren, Cherie Suonvieri, Evan Suonvieri, Levi Suonvieri, Devan Suonvieri, and Savannah Speece; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.