Published in the August 5, 2016 edition
NORTH READING — Philip R. Armstrong, 68, formerly of Melrose, passed away at the Meadow View Center in North Reading on Friday, July 29.
Phil was born in Melrose on June 19, 1948, one of three children of the late Richard A. and M. Elizabeth (Moore) Armstrong. He was raised in Melrose where he graduated from Melrose High School, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He proudly served his country as a corporal, receiving the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
He was honorably discharged on Aug. 4, 1970, and continued his undergraduate education at Indiana University.
Phil worked for the Nielsen Company servicing the electronic video equipment installed for national television ratings. He enjoyed his work traveling throughout the region providing technical support for his clients.
In his 30s, Phil began a lifelong battle with the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. He fought the disease fiercely while continuing to live independently for most of his life.
He loved collecting model planes, celebrity photographs and Boston emergency vehicles. He also enjoyed reading, investing and loved taking on the house in Las Vegas. Vacations were always spent in Las Vegas playing the slots or blackjack but he also enjoyed holidays back home with the family.
Phil was a kind, polite and respectful man with an occasional act of mischief as well. With a limited diet due to Parkinson’s, he still snuck out for an occasional ice cream or bag of chips. Phil would surprise you but he was always a loving, gentle man who was especially generous with his family.
Philip was the dear brother of Carol Poitras and her husband Stephen of New Hampshire and Paul Armstrong and his wife Margery of Massachusetts. Cherished uncle of Leah Kuznik and her husband Jan of Massachusetts, Sarah Poitras of South Carolina and Kristen Poitras of New Hampshire. Also survived by several cousins.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor and remembrance of Phil’s life for his graveside service at Wyoming Cemetery, 205 Sylvan St., Melrose on Thursday, Aug. 4, at noon with military honors presented by the U.S. Marine Corps. For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
