Philip R. Overland

Philip R. Overland, 55, of Rushford, died peacefully at his home in the presence of his family on Tuesday, February 15, 2005. He was born on March 16, 1949, in Moline, Illinois, the son of Clair and Ellen Overland. Philip was raised in Rushford, Graduated from Rushford High School and attended Winona State University. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. On March 3, 1973 he married Mary Anne Benson at Rushford Lutheran Church in Rushford. Philip's Career was in the building trade, working 10 years in California and then at Jim's Building Center in Rushford. He was a member of the Rushford Lutheran Church, Rushford Lion's Club, American Legion, and the Son's of Norway. Philip was an avid horse lover. He found so much peace in spending time with his horse's: Patch, Nickers, Jazz and Patriot. He also loved spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife Mary Anne; mother, Ellen; three step-children: Randy (Kim) Benson of Peterson, Minn., Mike (Karen) Benson of Rushford and Mary Kaye (Vern) Bunke of Rushford; eight grandchildren: Adam, Breanna, Brittany, Lacey, Tyler, Kelsey, Ashley, Bekka and three more who were grandchildren in his heart: Ethan, Hannah and Jonah; one brother: David Overland of Seattle, Wash.; two sisters: Pam (Jerry) Klema of Roseau, Minn. and Lori (Perry) Benson of Houston, Minn.; and eleven nieces and nephews. Philip was preceded in death by his father, grandparents and one brother-in-law, Jerry Bunke. The memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 19, at Rushford Lutheran Church with the Rev. Roger Michaelson officiating. There will be military honor's by the Murphy Johnson American Legion Post. Friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday at Hoff Funeral Homes - Rushford Chapel.