Longtime Federal Way resident and businessman Philip (Phil) Eichholtz lost his battle with cancer on Dec. 31, 2013, at the age of 92.

Phil was born March 28, 1921, to Frederick W. and Olivia I. Eichholtz in Portland, Maine and raised in Western Pennsylvania.

Phil graduated from Penn State University after serving in the Army Air Corps as an officer during World War II. His military journey led him to meet his wife and best friend, Margaret (Peggy), also an officer in the Army Air Corps. They married in August 1947 and settled in the Pacific Northwest. Phil and Peg opened New Lumber and Hardware in Federal Way, WA in May 1954. New Lumber is now owned and operated by sons Jim and Bill.

Phil was active in many service organizations including The Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club and The Elks Club. He was an avid golfer and traveler who also enjoyed playing bridge, reading, walking and dancing. These talents afforded Phil and Peggy the opportunity of sharing their love of dance as instructors and Assistant Cruise Directors aboard ship. In retirement, he and Peg spent many winters in Yuma, Arizona and loved entertaining at the family beach cabin at Key Center, WA in their summers.

Phil will be remembered as a loyal husband and father, successful businessman, and civic leader. Phil often expressed how fortunate he felt to have been a part of the growth of Federal Way – from a “one stoplight wide spot” on Route 99 to the vibrant and diverse city it is today.

Phil is survived by his four children, Jim (Angie) Eichholtz of Tacoma, Phil (Irene) Eichholtz of Los Angeles, Libby (Kirk) Williams of Walla Walla, and Bill (Ramona) Eichholtz of Federal Way as well as his eight grandchildren and three great-grand children. He was preceded in death by his wife and four sisters.

The family would ask that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or the Federal Way Historical Society. A Celebration of Life will be held January 19th at 2:00 at Village Green Retirement Campus.