Philip Hannema Obituary

Hannema, Philip Arthur

Philip Arthur Hannema of Chicago, passed away on November 17, 2024 at the golden age of 98. Son of the late Tjerk "Ted" and Sarah (nee Zylstra), Phil was born on June 30, 1926 in the far southern section of Chicago. After graduating high school, he joined the Army during the latter stages of WWII, stationed in Alaska. He later continued his military service, and then was part of the reserves until his honorable discharge as a corporal in 1957.

He attended the University of South Dakota, gaining a degree in Accounting. He worked as an accountant for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He was able to take retirement at the age of 49 in 1975. He then worked independently on his own investment opportunities, and that began his passionate dedication to the many philanthropic endeavors in the Chicago LGBTQ community, including Chicago House, the Illinois Human Rights PAC, Equality Illinois, Windy City Athletic Association, and Lambda Legal. He was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 2000.

Phil is survived by his brother, Charles, of Colorado, and his three nieces, Tracey, Suzanne, and Christine.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Burial will be private, but a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

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