Phillip Wayne AGNEW Obituary (2024)

Phillip Wayne Agnew: A Life of Adventure, Humility, and Family Phillip Wayne Agnew, 74, of Malaga, Washington, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his beloved wife, and family. Born in Leavenworth, Washington, on June 16, 1950, to Clint and Mary Francis Agnew, Phil graduated from Peshastin High School in 1968. He pursued mechanics at Tacoma Technical College (now Bates Technical College) and returned to Peshastin to help run the family orchard. Alongside this, he worked at the Peshastin Mill and later joined Alcoa Aluminum in 1971, where he worked until 1996, retiring as the Potroom Supervisor. Phil's dedication to safety at Alcoa was notable. He played a key role in designing and implementing various safety programs. After retiring from Alcoa, Phil continued his commitment to community service by supervising inmate worker crews for Chelan County from 1997-1999. From 2000-2012, he worked for Chelan County PUD, making significant contributions as a safety professional, particularly at the Rock Island Dam. Phil's love for the outdoors was a defining aspect of his life. He found joy in fishing, hunting, and boating, often sharing these passions with his sons, Kelly and Scott. Their adventures in the high lakes of the Enchantments were among his most cherished memories. Phil also coached his children in their athletic pursuits, always being a supportive and present father and grandfather. An active member of Ducks Unlimited, Phil worked tirelessly to preserve habitats for future generations. He also gained international recognition for raising and releasing pheasants, a testament to his dedication to wildlife conservation. Phil's passion extended to raising horses and cattle, and he enjoyed numerous outdoor adventures with his beloved labrador retrievers. Phil's love for classic cars was another significant part of his life. He spent countless hours working on various cars with Kelly and Scott, with the restoration of a 1955 Chevy Belair being a particularly memorable project. In 1990, Phil moved to his Tarpiscan Ranch, where he established a legacy of horse and cattle raising. For the past 35 years, his home was a welcoming place for family and friends to connect, make new memories, and learn about the Agnew family tree. Hosting the Agnew-Garrison Family Reunion for the past 17 years, Phil brought family members together from all over the country, strengthening the bonds that meant so much to him. Phil is preceded in death by his parents, Clint and Mary Francis Agnew; sister, Linda Agnew Stephenson; and grandsons, Tyler Johnson and Conner Agnew. He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Maria Agnew; brother, Ken Agnew; sister, Joyce Agnew-Quiton; children, Christi Agnew-Johnson (Bob), Kelly Agnew (Jo), and Walter Scott Agnew (Jenny); grandchildren, Zachary Johnson, Cody Agnew, Riley Agnew, Chase Agnew, Kelsie Agnew, and Cooper Agnew; and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. One family member fondly recalled, "Uncle Phil was my favorite person to see at reunions and family events. Being called 'sweetheart' never sounded the same when it didn't come from him. He made me proud to be an Agnew, and he set the example for how to cherish family and friends." The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Confluence Hospice, Dr. Derrick, Dr. Newton, and the emergency room personnel for their exceptional care. Special thanks to Brookside Funeral Home and Crematory for handling the arrangements. Phil Agnew's adventurous spirit, humility, and deep love for his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held May 10, 2025. More information will follow. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.