Lord Philip Martin McCloud, age 74, of Galena, IL, completed his earthly journey suddenly on December 30, 2023, at home while in the loving arms of his wife.  To honor Philip’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held at a later date this summer (June).  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Philip’s family.

Phil was born on November 24, 1949, in Holland, Michigan, a son to Thomas and Irene (Martin) McCloud.  He grew up with a strong personal drive to make the most out of each day and leave his mark on the world before he was finished.  Phil eventually met and was united in marriage to the love of his life, Leslie Merar.  They were blessed with many wonderful years together and two sons of their own to love and nurture along the way.  Phil was blessed with the mind and determination of a gifted business entrepreneur which soon led to him becoming the Owner and CEO of McCloud Aquatics.  His legacy as the Director of Magic continues to thrive as the fifth generation now carries his torch forward and the example, he led with can still be seen in the day-to-day activities of the business.

In his free-time, Phil tried to enjoy life whenever possible.  Although he was retired, an entrepreneur is never really retired.  Phil spent most mornings working on the family business and spent the afternoon on the golf course, but baiting his hook in search of the next big catch on the water was also among his top choices.  Phil also enjoyed working his magic in the kitchen, especially where delicious sauces were concerned, and only to perfectly complete the mission he always had music on in the background to set the mood.  Music was his biggest hobby and was always working on his “library”.  Safe to say Phil finally got his music just right at the end.  Phil was also an avid Chicago Cubs fan, but truth be told, his reputation as “Lagnappe/MoJoe” while playing online games with his online community was legendary.  It’s difficult to imagine a world without Phil walking confidently by our side moving forward.  Philips stories of the 60’s and Pest Control will be sorely missed.  Phil loved Key West Florida and went every chance he could to relax and of course go fishing.  His love and light played such an intricate role in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him and to face the year ahead knowing that the world is now that much quieter is going to be challenging indeed.  We will miss him more than he could ever imagine, but we thankfully can seek peace in knowing that he is now free from his earthly health battles and we will see him again one day.  Thank you, Phil, for playing each role (husband, father, grandfather, mentor, entrepreneur, leader, survivor, friend) you undertook so bravely and boldly and may we follow your faithful example just as you taught us, until we all meet again.   HOLD FAST MCCLOUD.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Phil include,

his beautiful bride and soul-mate,

Leslie A. McCloud, Galena, IL;

his two sons,

Joshua (Illana) McCloud, Missoula, Montana,

and T.J. McCloud, Bartlett, Illinois;

his four adored grandchildren,

Morrison McCloud, William McCloud, Harlow McCloud, and Talya McCloud;

his siblings,

Chris (Stephanie) McCloud, Bozeman, Montana,

and Carol McCloud, Vashon Island, Washington;

his beloved Dachshunds,

Popper and Grace;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents.

Philip’s family would like to thank the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Department and the Galena Fire and EMS Departments for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.

Online condolences may be shared with Philip’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com