Phillip P. Cler

March 2, 1940 - November 17, 2020

Phillip Paul Cler, 80, of Jackson, was peacefully called to his heavenly home on November 17th, 2020. He was born to the late Milton and Marie (Zovar) Cler on March 2nd, 1940. Phil is survived by his loving bride of 56 years, Carol Marie (Johnson), his sister Mary Beth (John) Born, and his three wonderful daughters Lisa (Ken) Neumann, Kristen (Bob) Kollmansberger, Kelli (Bryon) Fraley. Phil was a loving grandfather to his favorite granddaughters Ashlyn, Addalissa (Jake), Paige, and Bella, and his awesome grandsons Phillip, Jakob, Colton and step-grandson Kyle. Also survived by many family members including amazing cousins, nieces and nephews and close friends who meant the world to him. Phil was a humble, kind, and generous man who loved God, his country, the flag, his family, and spending time with his friends. Phil’s quick-witted sense of humor and playful smirk will be greatly missed. A 1958 graduate of Rufus King High School, Phil was a pitcher on his high school team and on the 1958 All City Baseball Championship team. Phil was a chaplain’s assistant in the US Army. He served 6 months active and 6 years reserved. Phil and Carol were married on November 21st, 1964 and raised their family in many places including the home they built in the woods of Jackson in 1980. Phil loved being surrounded by the wildlife on their property. This was especially true of the various birds but not the many squirrels. Phil retired from sales at Meyers Printing in 2007. He filled his days with his favorite hobbies including playing golf, hunting, fishing, baseball, working outside, hiking and cheering on the Brewers and Packers. He also enjoyed a good cocktail while listening to various types of music, especially his favorite, Frank Sinatra, which taught us all the love of music. Phil was a talented artist and loved spending time in his workshop where he often painted, carved and woodworked. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to The Highgrounds in Neillsville, WI in honor of the veterans or St. John’s Lutheran Church in Jackson, WI where Phil and Carol are members. We would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Weber and Sandy at Aurora Slinger and the amazing heroes that cared for him at Aurora Summit Hospital.

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I'm thinking of you in your time of sorrow, always had a good time with Phil.

God bless Phil and all who love him.

Dear Carol and family, We don't know you but my hubby and me both graduated from RKHS with Phil. I'm sure if he attended any of our many reunions, we saw him there. We went to all but, perhaps, a couple. When I told Don that Phil had passed, he said, immediately, he was the pitcher on our basebal team.....could just see his face, distinctly. We were also so sorry to hear it was COVID that took him down. Don and I both wish you and your family our most sincere condolences as you move forward. I'm sure you all have many happy memories of Phil that you will cherish forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during these difficult days you have ahead of you..........

I worked with Phil in the 1990's at Meyers. He was my favorite person ever! My husband and I even visited Wisconsin and had a drink at his bar. Such a wonderful man. We were just talking about him one day prior to hearing of his passing. So deeply sorry. He was a treasure.

We treasured our friendship for 48 years and have many happy memories. You will be greatly missed Phil. Rest in Peace.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Rest In Peace Phil. You were a remarkable man that I had the pleasure of knowing. You will be missed.

Carol and Family, thank you for calling and letting your Highground family know about Phil. It is still hard to believe everything you told me and what he endured. I am so sorry. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you today and the days to come. Feel the love of your family and you will always have Phil with you.

Phil and I worked together at two different companies from 1982-2007. Learned quite a bit from him. Hard not to like him. I cannot pass the Jackson exit on Hwy 41 without thinking about Phil, his life long home and the office he maintained during the 1980's. Phil will be missed. My heartfelt condolences to Carol and their three daughters.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.