John "Phil" Phillip Gurile

John Phillip “Phil” Gurile, born May 5, 1945 in Columbus, Ohio, died at home after a courageous battle with metastatic cancer on January 2, 2021 at the age of 75. Raised in Etna, Ohio, Phil graduated from Watkins Memorial High School in 1963 and, in 1966, received his Associate’s Degree in Engineering from The Ohio Technical College. Phil worked as a radar technician for the Federal Aviation Administration at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport for over 32 years, retiring at the age of 56. After retirement, Phil was passionate in his participation in local historical and community organizations. Phil was an active member of the Southwest Licking Historical Society and founding member of the Mead-Needham Museum in Pataskala, Ohio. He was a longtime member of the Pataskala United Methodist Church and Pataskala Lions Club. Phil was also a racing enthusiast who designed and built his own race car. He was a member of the Sports Car Club of America and raced as an amateur at Watkins Glen, Mid-Ohio and Road Atlanta, among others. Other interests included early 20th century toy trains and erector sets. Phil was preceded in death by parents John Wallace and June (Perrin) Gurile. Phil is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Priscilla (Christensen) Gurile; daughter Michelle (Jonathan) Whitt and grandchildren Joshua and Ella; daughter Melissa (David) Black; numerous other family members and countless friends. A memorial service will be planned at a future date. Donations in honor of Phil may be made to the Genitourinary Cancers and Medical Oncology Research Fund, Fund 316905, to support the work of Amir Mortazavi, M.D. at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - The James by calling 800-293-5066 or visiting www.cancer.osu.edu link to “Donate Now.” The Kirkersville chapel of Hoskinson Funeral and Cremation Service is honored to care for Phil and his family.