Philip J. Kerwin Jr., of Arizona, passed away surrounded by those who loved him.
Philip was born on October 30, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan. He was raised in Detroit before moving to Arizona in 1979. He attended Notre Dame High School and went on to build a career that included working as a test driver at the GM Proving Grounds and later as a truck driver for Safeway, from which he retired in 2017.
Philip had a lifelong love of automobiles and enjoyed all things related to cars. He was particularly proud of his beautifully restored 1931 Model A, which reflected his passion and appreciation for classic automobiles.
He was preceded in death by his son, Jason Kerwin; his parents, Philip and Frances Kerwin; his sister, Kathleen Kerwin Beam; and his brother-in-law, Elmer Beam.
Philip is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Kerwin; his children, Philip Kerwin III and Stephanie Kerwin; his grandchildren, Samantha Waelde and Krystal Kerwin; and his siblings, James Kerwin and his late wife, Sandra Kerwin, and Mary Kerwin and her husband, Joseph Caplis.
A service honoring Philip’s life will be held Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Mountain View Funeral Home, 7900 E. Main St., Mesa, Arizona 85207.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mayo Clinic, 5881 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85054-4502.
Philip will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for automobiles, and the lasting memories he created with those who knew and loved him.
Celebrating 75 years of serving our community