Fowlerville News and Views Online

 Philip M. Tatus

Tatus, Philip Michael, a long-time resident of Fowlerville, Michigan, lost his battle with cancer at age 71 on November 2, 2021, in the care of Arbor Hospice Residence, Saline, Michigan. Born in Detroit, he was the beloved son of Peter S. and Irene D. (Gburzynski) Tatus.

Phil was drafted into the US Army and served on active duty in Viet Nam. After returning from his service, Phil worked at several GM plants over the years, completing his career at the General Motors Flint Metal Center. Phil was an active union representative, recognized for his service to the United Auto Workers (UAW) as a union steward before his retirement in 2015.

At GM, Phil befriended a younger fellow employee, Anthony Pope, who became like a brother to Phil for the rest of his days. Phil’s family and friends remain ever grateful for Anthony’s care and diligence during Phil’s illness.

A resourceful environmentalist and avid fisherman, Phil was committed to the outdoors and nature. Recognized in the neighborhood as “the man with the brown dog,” Phil and his good friend Robert walked the countryside near Fowlerville with their canines for nearly 12 consecutive years. Rain or snow, they rarely missed a day. Phil’s faithful companion Hershey continues to reside next door.

Surviving are Phil’s aunt Maxine Meister as well as siblings: Ronald (Kathy) Tatus of Jacksonville, Arkansas; Jeffrey (Marisol) Tatus of Vail, Arizona; Robert Tatus of Waterford, Michigan; sister-in-law Krys Tatus of Fenton, Michigan.

Other survivors include nieces and nephews: Elizabeth, Matthew, Jonathan, Bret, Taryn, Kacy, Cally, Parker, Lauren, Paulo, Isaiah, Elena, and his great-niece Ella as well as a number of wonderful, caring cousins.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Susan and Michaeleen, and youngest brother Rick.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post in Howell or the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6464 in Fowlerville, Michigan.

An open memorial will be held on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Sharp Funeral Home, 1000 W. Silver Lake Rd., Fenton, MI, 48430. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM followed by a service and open floor at 10:30 AM. Burial with military honors is scheduled for noon at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Cemetery, 600 N. Adelaide Street, in Fenton.