Philip R. Gilstrap

Philip R Gilstrap, AKA “Poppy” left this world only seconds after giving his wife of 54+ years, one last kiss on February 2, 2021. Phil was born May 14, 1940 and raised in Salem, OR. He later moved to Eugene where he cleverly used his 1957 Corvette as bait to hoodwink Patty Funken into marrying him in 1966. Phil and Patty raised their son and two daughters in Eugene where he worked as a sales rep for American Brands. Phil was also a proud member of the US Marines Corp. Much of Phil’s life was spent doing what he enjoyed most, preserving, trading and loving classic cars and all their owners. He enjoyed spending time with his beloved wife Patty and devoted kids, grandchildren and great grand children out on his 5 acres. Phil’s unique sense of humor and unfiltered wit will always be remembered. Our circle of family and friends will agree it won’t be the same without him. Phil is survived by his dedicated wife Patty , his children Ken Gilstrap and wife Susan, Trese and husband Mike Sheppard, Debby and husband Joe Sanchez,(birth children Suzy and Jeff) his three brothers Gary, Tad and Bry Gilstrap, grandchildren Bronte Swanson and fiance’ Makai Lemke, Dalton and Sophia Swanson, Addison Sanchez, great grandchildren , Josie Ray and Nakai (Sonboy)Lemke. Phil is preceded in death by grandson Cooper Sanchez. A celebration of life with be held at a later date, which will be announced when weather allows. We will celebrate Phil’s life outdoors, with the people and cars he loved dearly. In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the Dementia Society of America or your charity of your choice.