Phillip Raymond Denhardt Born April 7th, 1937, passed away on May 5, 2023, at 85 years of age. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1955 and married his high school sweetheart Sandra L. Howard on May 31st, 1958. (She survives)
He graduated from Purdue University in 1960. He began his teaching career in Industrial Arts in Angola, then Akron, and Attica Indiana all while earning his Master’s degree from Indiana State University in 1967. He continued 32 of his 39-year teaching career back at his Alma Mater Jefferson High School in Lafayette. He taught Woodworking, Graphic Arts, Drafting, Construction, Metals and Drivers Education. He was also a photographer for Lafayette Journal & Courier and Douglas Studios, also took pictures and ran print newsletters for Jeff Nautilus and Booster. He won numerous awards for his outstanding commitment and service in education. After retirement he became a school bus driver for Lafayette School Corporation from 1999 – 2017.
He worked numerous second jobs over the years while being actively involved with their four children and extracurricular activities. He loved to travel and spend time with family. Tennessee was the family’s home away from home.
Preceded in death by his son Richard, (wife Pat survives). Surviving are his sons Mark and Jeff, daughter Candy (Scott). Two brothers Mick (wife Sharon) and Doug (wife Judi). Seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
He was a member of Evangelical Covenant Church where services will be held.
Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 12:00 (noon), Saturday, May 13, 2023, service to follow at 12:00 noon, at Evangelical Covenant Church, 3600 S. 9th St., Lafayette, IN 47909 with Pastor Stacy Littlefield officiating.
Entombment will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Park. Memorial contributions in memory of Phil can be given to Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC). You may leave condolences at www.soller-baker.com