Phillip J. Graves, age 71 of Ada, passed away December 27, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Frances Graves; brothers, Gary and Wallace. Phillip is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sandy Fase; brother, Christopher (Sallie) Graves; sister, Martha Jayne Stitt; brothers- and sister- in-laws, Richard (Amalie) Fase, Roger Fase, and Sharon Fase; several nieces and nephews, and faithful canine companion, Theo.
Phil was an accomplished trap and skeet shooter and a proud member of the Kent County Conservation League, where he won numerous awards and formed lasting friendships. Outside the range, he was an avid motorcycle enthusiast who loved the freedom of the open road, traveling near and far whenever he could. A true connoisseur of food and drink, Phil had an especially deep appreciation for fine cuisine and was a devoted Scotch aficionado.
For many years, Phil served as the manager of Schnitzelbank Restaurant, where he built not only a successful career but also a strong and meaningful friendship with owner Karl Siebert. In the early 1990s, Phillip took an entrepreneurial leap and opened the Schnitz Deli on Fulton Street in Grand Rapids, a place that reflected his passion for good food and bringing people together.
Phil was a fierce advocate for animals, opening his heart and home to many rescue animals over the years. His compassion knew no bounds, and his love for animals was evident in both word and deed.
Known for his great sense of humor and remarkable storytelling, Phil had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease. He was devoted to his family, someone who always had your back no matter the situation. One of his greatest joys was cooking for friends and family—sharing meals, stories, and time together around the table.
Phillip Graves will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, wit, and the deep love he carried for his family, friends, animals, and the simple pleasures of life. His stories, laughter, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In lieu of a formal service, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial Contributions can be directed to Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, 8935 Thompson Rd, Lake Odessa, MI 48849.
6 Responses
God Bless you Phil . You will be missed in many ways, now the family has one less brother and we have one less friend.
May the Lord give comfort and peace to everyone 🙏
You will be missed, Phil. From the time we were kids, you amazed me. You were funny and smart, and a great storyteller. You had an opinion on all topics. You knew our family history and shared so many details and wonderful stories, including a trip to the Keller cemetery. I can still remember you taking me and my siblings out on your parents’ property in Ada and letting us shoot a rifle. My shoulder throbbed the next day. Everything you did made an impression! My dad loved that you loved food and were interested in learning his Italian recipes. I remember you seeking out Taylor Pork Roll every time you visited us in NJ. You were always kind. You and Sandy took in animals and people who needed you. Beneath a sometimes gruff exterior, your kindness was plentiful. All of us cousins loved you and admired you! You were a force who will be missed greatly. You have our love forever. Let’s hope we all meet again.
Dear Christopher, Sallie, Sandy and family,
We in the Aquinas community extend our sympathy upon learning of your husband/father’s death. He lived an adventurous life with deep love and joy.
God grace you with Gratitude for his life among us and with Peace as you grieve his loss and celebrate his Eternal Life.
We will remember Phillip by name during our monthly Memorial Service for deceased family members of Alums and benefactors of the college.
Be assured of our care-filled support.
Sister Mary Ann
P.S. So many of the Aquinas students and employees frequent the Schnitz Deli. Phillip had a good business sense – he “fed” our bodies with more than good food; the Deli is a place of community, too.
[WE] WISH FOR YOU….
Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart,
Gentle hugs when spirits sag,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Faith so that you can believe,
Patience to accept the truth,
Love to complete your life.
[God’s grace to see us through every crisis.]
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Be joyful in hope; Patient in Affliction; Faithful in Prayer.” Romans 12:12
Sr. Mary Ann Barrett, OP ’66 | Alumni Engagement
Aquinas College
Phil I have been your sister for 52 years. I thank you for accepting all people. Our kids adored you. You made them think and laugh. They knew when Uncle Phil attuned the party would begin. Your food and Aunt Sandy’s baked treats were on the top of their lists. You are sincerely missed by all of us.
Phil I have been your sister for 52 years. I thank you for accepting all people. Our kids adored you. You made them think and laugh. They knew when Uncle Phil arrived the party would begin. Your food and Aunt Sandy’s baked treats were on the top of their lists. You are sincerely missed by all of us.
Phil, thank you for providing me with some of my most vivid memories. I fondly remember the trip we took as teenagers from Arizona to California, driving through the desert at night to avoid the heat and and climbing through the snowy mountains of California a short time later. It was a revelation to me. You lived an adventurous life it seemed to me and I felt fortunate to ride along for a short time. I also feel fortunate to have seen you this past November to appreciate your company once again after many years. A gentle man of firm beliefs and moral conviction you are one of a kind. Cousin Alfie