Philip Ewert

The Reverend Philip Jonathan Ewert, a devoted pastor and servant of Christ, passed away on June 4, 2024, at Indian Hills Manor in Ogallala, Nebraska, at the age of 87.

Philip was born on June 20, 1936, in K'ai Chow, Hopei, China, to August and Martha (Weins) Ewert, who were serving as missionaries. At age 5, Philip returned to Marion, South Dakota with his family where they lived on the family farm, and his formal kindergarten education began in a one-room schoolhouse. He completed his elementary education (1st-5th grades) at Mountain Lake Bible School (Mennonite school) in Mountain Lake, Minnesota where his father served as a pastor. In 1947, Philip and his family relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, where his father took a position to teach and administer the business office at Grace Bible Institute. He attended Bancroft Elementary School in Omaha Public Schools (6th-8th grades). During this time he started a robust lawn mowing business and delivered Omaha World Herald newspapers to hundreds of customers, which he continued throughout his high school years. Philip attended Central High School in Omaha (9th-11th grade) and graduated from Omaha Technical High School in 1954. Philip pursued his higher education at Grace Bible Institute (Grace University), University of Omaha (University of Nebraska-Omaha), University of Denver, and distance learning from Oxford University.

While attending Grace Bible Institute, Philip met the love of his life, Patricia Ann Flaming, and they were married in Ogallala, Nebraska on June 20, 1959. They made their home in Omaha, Nebraska where Philip's first career was with the Crane Plumbing Company in the "damaged goods" department. Philip's career in the plumbing industry was short-lived as he had dedicated his life to serving God and his community at an early age. To that end, Philip and Patricia served various church congregations, beginning part-time in Honey Creek, Iowa in 1959 before moving to Ogallala in 1964 where Philip served as pastor of the Berean Church until 1982. His voice was also familiar on the radio (KOGA) for many years; he was well known throughout the community for his contributions to the program "Sunday Sunlight." In 1983, Philip continued his ministry at the First Congregational Church in McCook, Nebraska before returning to Ogallala in 2000, serving as interim pastor for the Congregational Churches in both Ogallala and Brule.

Reverend Phil effortlessly bridged social divides with genuine interest and empathy for everyone he met, often over his cherished early morning coffee. In his world, there were never strangers, only potential friends waiting to share a cup and a story. Accompanying Philip anywhere often meant extending your time, as he made it a point to warmly greet not only everyone he knew but also those he hadn't yet met. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life was a hallmark of his servant's heart and his unwavering belief in unconditional love and acceptance. These principles, which he championed daily in his personal interactions and teachings, enabled him to provide hope and support throughout the community.

Philip thrived in the realm of spirited debate and the exploration of cognitive dissonance, engaging minds and challenging perspectives with his sharp intellect and quick wit. His love for books was profound, and he found joy and adventure within their pages, often sparking lively discussions and sharing his passion for literature with others. Philip's dedication to his faith and community was evident in the long hours and tireless effort he devoted to his ministry and volunteer activities.

Despite his serious commitments, Philip always maintained a playful spirit, delighting in a bit of tomfoolery and skullduggery that endeared him to many, even as it provoked gentle chiding from others. He found joy and companionship in his beloved dog, Ben, and his goats, who were not only part of his family but also unwitting contributors to his sermons, their antics often providing perfect illustrations for his sermons. His interactions with his animals underscored his approach to life, filled with humor and warmth. Philip's life exemplified the profound joy and fulfillment that come from serving others, ensuring that every moment was imbued with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand, leaving a lasting impact on all he encountered.

Philip is survived by his wife, Patricia, of Grant, Nebraska, and their children: Jeremy (Gail) Ewert of Ogallala, Brian Ewert of Centennial, Colorado, Rhonda (Larry Molacek) Fisher of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Meridee Ewert of Ogallala, Nebraska, and Nathan (Jennifer) Ewert of Loveland, Colorado, 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren with two more on the way. He is also survived by his brothers, Ralph Ewert of Lincoln, David (Karen) Ewert of Peoria, Illinois; and his sister, Martha (Lon) Sorenson of Lincoln, Nebraska; along with many other relatives and friends.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, August and Martha (Weins) Ewert; his sister, Irene (Alvin) Giesbrecht; his son-in-law, Renier Henning; and his sister-in-law, Fern Ewert.

A memorial has been established in Phil's memory for later designation. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Gracepoint Church in Ogallala, Nebraska with Pastor Curtis Tschetter officiating.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.