April 25, 1937 - June 16, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Philip Bareis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this world peacefully on June 16, 2026, at the Chelsea Retirement Center after a brief illness. Born on April 25, 1937, in the town of Chelsea, Michigan, Phil's life was a testament to love, dedication, and the power of kindness.
Phil was the cherished son of Oscar and Wilda Bareis and grew up alongside his brothers, Oscar and Richard, all of whom have predeceased him. He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Helen Bareis, with whom he shared a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Cynthia (Greg) Studrawa, Michael Bareis, and Mark (Sheri) Bareis. Phil's legacy continues through his 10 treasured grandchildren: Samantha (Ty) Kozinski, Kate Studrawa, Allie Studrawa, Abby Bareis, Nicole Bareis, Ryan Bareis, Natalie Bareis, Rachel Bareis, Meghan Bareis, Grant Bareis; and two adored great-grandchildren, Avery and Clara Kozinski. Phil is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Bareis Schuster; sister-in-law, Arlene Bareis, and many nieces and nephews.
A proud graduate of Chelsea High School's Class of 1955, Phil's passion for sports was evident early on. He went on to attend Western Michigan University, where he shone as an outstanding baseball pitcher for the Broncos, even pitching in the College World Series in 1959. His talent led him to play minor league baseball for three years before embarking on a remarkable teaching and coaching career.
Phil began his journey as an educator at Clinton High School before moving to Chelsea High School in 1966. There, he served as the Head Football Coach and teacher, positively impacting the lives of countless students and athletes. His dedication to coaching culminated in winning the State Football Championship in 1971 and being inducted into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2012. Phil was not only a coach but a mentor whose guidance extended beyond the field, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate to know him.
Phil found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a proud member of Zion Lutheran Church and an enthusiastic supporter of his favorite teams, the Detroit Tigers, and college football. He loved traveling, especially to Arizona during the winter months, and his heart was fullest when surrounded by his family, relishing in the moments that created lifelong memories.
Known affectionately as a "dog whisperer," Phil had an uncanny ability to connect with every dog he encountered, leaving a trail of wagging tails and happy hearts. His kindness and generosity were boundless, especially toward his children and grandchildren, who were the center of his world.
In honor of Phil's love for animals, in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Therapaws, an organization close to his heart, at www.therapaws.org. Memorials also may be made to Zion Lutheran Church at www.zionchelsea.org.
As we say goodbye to a remarkable man, let us remember Phil Bareis for his unwavering love, his dedication to nurturing and mentoring others, and his ability to touch lives with his warm smile and gentle spirit. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.
Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 3-5 and 6-8 p.m., as well as at Zion Lutheran Church on Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 12-1 p.m.
Funeral Services will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, 3050 S. Fletcher Road, Chelsea, on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
