Philip Leon Stetson, loving husband, father, and outdoorsman, passed away on September 7, 2021 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Elena, his four children, Sean, Colin, Megan, and Ryan, and his three grandchildren, Hannah, Nathan, and Vivienne.
A dedicated and consummate student, Phil earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, and a master’s degree in Biochemistry, an MD, and a PhD in Pharmacology from New York University. His career spanned many years of advancing cancer research at the University of Michigan and directing the analytical chemistry department at WIL Research Labs.
Phil was a lifelong and dedicated fisherman. He loved his time on and around the water, be it a river, lake, or ocean, and spent many of his freest moments in nature, humming a tune in peace and tranquility, purposeful, with rod in hand.
Possessed of a beautiful voice and a penchant for crooning, he earned his nickname “Pops” living out his deep love of music in karaoke bars, surrounded by the cheers and adulations of his friends and family.
In love and remembrance, Phil’s family will be holding a private service. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting either the Karma Senior Dog Sanctuary, founded by his son Ryan, or the Michigan United Conservation Clubs.
