Phillip Henry Cockburn of East Tawas passed away Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012 at his home, age 79. Phillip was born on Sept. 2, 1932 in Bridgeton, Maine to David Henry and Mildred Martha (nee Larrabee) Cockburn. After he graduated from high school in Maine, Phillip enlisted in the United States Navy, where he was stationed aboard the U.S.S. Cabot for three years. After his service in the Navy, he re-enlisted in the military, joining with the United States Air Force. Phillip continued his service with the Air Force for 18 years, retiring honorably in 1971 as a technical sergeant at Norton Air Force Base in California. After he moved to Michigan, Phillip worked for National Gypsum Company for a few years. He then became employed through the United States Postal Service in East Tawas where he worked for over 20 years, first as a mail carrier then advancing to a clerk, where he retired around 1994. Phillip was very involved in the Tawas community and had many dear friends. He was a member of the American Legion, DAV, VFW, Tawas Moose Lodge No. 2400, Tawas Bay Fraternal Order of Eagles and Tawas Elks No. 2525. Phillip was also on many different bowling leagues in the Tawas area, and he enjoyed working on electrical equipment and C.B. radios and wood working. He will always be remembered for his real passion of camping and the many fun memories he created with his family and friends. Phillip is survived by his three loving children, Larry (Virginia) Cockburn of Middlebury, Ind., Karen Cockburn of East Tawas and Marc (Betty) Cockburn of Middlebury, Ind.; six grandchildren, Michael Simpson, Brandon Cockburn, Crystal Cockburn, Kevin Cockburn, Kayla Cockburn and Kristopher Cockburn; five great grandchildren, Austin Holm, Jordan Simpson, Ambroshia Simpson, Daymeyin Goodinson, and Corbin Houghton; one brother, Gary (Annette) Cockburn of New Hampshire; one sister, Betty Peek of Virginia; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and his beloved dog, Maggie. Phillip was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene on Aug. 17, 1999; his parents, David and Mildred Cockburn; and two brothers, Don and Horace Cockburn. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 1 p.m. at Buresh Funeral Home in Tawas City with Reverend Steven Mahlburg officiating and full military honors. His family will welcome friends for visitation at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Cremation will follow the funeral service. An on-line guest registry is available at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com. Cremation arrangements are by Buresh Funeral Home in Tawas City.