Philip Goddu Ives, a longtime resident of New Canaan, passed away peacefully after a short illness at the age of 91.
Philip Goddu Ives
Philip was born in 1935 in Winchester, Massachusetts, to Frederick and Aleda Ives. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan, and his brother, Rick. Philip grew up in Winchester and spent as much time as possible at Kezar Pond in Fryeburg, Maine, fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors. He was extremely proud of his New England heritage and his family.
Philip attended Winchester High School before graduating from Colby College in Maine. Throughout his life, Philip cherished his friendships and remained very close with many of his childhood friends from Winchester. In Annisquam, Massachusetts, he was introduced by his aunt and uncle to the love of his life, Joan Wheeler of Belfast, Northern Ireland. The two were married in Belfast on May 16, 1964. They moved to New Canaan in 1968, where they built a beautiful life and raised their three sons.
Philip began a successful career in sales at the Nashua Corporation, later working with St. Regis and the Quality Bakers of America before establishing his own company, Packaging Specialist. A natural-born salesman, Philip possessed an infectious personality and a genuine gift for building lasting relationships. He was a master storyteller who could captivate any room with his warmth, humor and enthusiasm.
Phil spent countless hours on the sidelines of sporting events, offering unwavering support as he watched his children and grandchildren play hockey, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and golf. An outdoor enthusiast who simply loved being in nature, he was also a passionate fan of the Boston Red Sox. Dedicated to his community, Philip actively volunteered with the New Canaan Nature Center, Getabout, and the Bristow Bird Sanctuary.
He is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law: Colin and Louisa Ives of New Canaan; Ken and Kristi Ives of Lafayette, California; and David and Kelly Ives of New Canaan. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Lisa Ives of Rowayton, and nine grandchildren who deeply adored him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Phil’s honor to the Friends of Bristow Bird Park of New Canaan.
I am so sorry to hear about Phil’s passing. He was such a genuinely kind and good-natured person, and his optimism was something that always seemed to lift those around him. I’ll always remember how deeply he cared about nature and how dedicated he was to protecting it. He will be greatly missed.
What a great life Phil lived for 91 years. Loving husband, devoted and supportive father, father-in-law, grandfather and treasured friend to many. In a world full of people concerned primarily with themselves, Phil always tried to see the good in others and found ways to make a positive contribution to every community in which he found himself. Dr. Seuss recommends “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” It is really easy to smile when one thinks of Phil. The world just lost a great one.
New Canaan lost a true gentlemen with Phil Ives passing. To the Ives Family, please accept my deepest condolences and also fond memories of a life well lived. I was lucky to have him as a friend and mentor when the Centennial restoration of the Bristow Bird Sanctuary and Wildwood Preserve began. He was forever enthusiastic and bright eyed at the prospect of seeing more birds while walking in nature. Farewell Phil.
Phil liked to laugh, often at himself. He was fun to be with. He cared about people and about our planet. I was fortunate to know Phil.