Obituary of Philip Edward Littlejohn
Born to Clairette and Joseph, February 12,1969, Phil Littlejohn was an unforgettable, much loved, witty and talented wiggle shincake.
He exuded confidence that would explode and splatter in 360 degrees every time he walked into a room covering anyone within earshot or line of sight with generous warmth and would captivate anyone lucky enough to be caught within his orbit.
He was a Niagara College Graduate and to become so, he spent the requisite years at Pinegrove Elementary School, Dalewood Middle School and Governor Simcoe Secondary School (in that order).
Phil was known to friends and family under many monikers including, but not limited to, Cluster, Phillie, Philabuster and the Wasp. But never Oatmeal. That was the name he called his 1954 Chevy Belair. 2-door. 3-on-the-tree.
When many of his current and close friends met him, he was a founding member of formidable, underage breakdance crew The Connection, whose short career highlights included: blowing high school minds at morning assemblies, competing at the Pen Centre and opening up for 80s new wavers The Spoons.
In addition to doing some of his finest, and most fashionable, work in the Niagara region, Phil also lived and worked in Vancouver, Tampa Bay, Washington State, New Jersey and Hawaii, among other places. He enjoyed visiting Thailand. And, we can be sure that Thailand equally enjoyed his visits.
Any place where he did not live, work or visit is really not worth mentioning here.
His admirable work ethic and natural charm preceded him, and for those of you who never had the pleasure of working with Phil, here are a few highlights from his own resume, in his own words:
“I work well independently, with others or in a group, especially when there’s no one else around”
and
“Some people won’t stop until the job is done. I won’t stop until I’m tired.”
Phil could (and would) make you laugh until you cry. His humour was the crux of his individuality and uniqueness. Perfectly Phil.
Whether unleashing a comedic stand up set when he arrived for dinner or entertaining captive ears with Stevie Ray Vaughn riffs he played adeptly on his electric guitar or crafting a ridiculous graphic comic with skill and otherworldly intellect, Phil had talents to express himself and connect with his people. Especially when hugging them.
He would walk to pick a friend up from work just to turn around and walk home with them for the sole reason to be in each other’s company, and nothing else. Not to go anywhere, and without plans. He was a story man. He could tell great stories and we in turn would tell them. His social tailoring skills helped many of us grow into something we could work with and who we would otherwise never be. Every one of his friends’ moms loved him. He was just that kind of a guy.
Phil leaves behind a community of friends that love and celebrate him along with his parents, Joe and Clairette, brother Dave, sister Trish and life partner Amanda.
His lifelong friend Storm encapsulates so much of what we all feel.
“to all the people that were fortunate enough to have been blessed by his grace, humility, kindness, warmth, radiating love..... let your pain be gentle, may your tears not sting and let your heart be full of warmth for our dear departed friend.
And for you, Cluster, my dearest of all friends, my head is in my hands and my heart upon the floor...........I love you.......but I know you know thatforever sleep softly, my friend”
We wish he was here.
As Covid protocols are in effect, this celebration of Phil’s life will have limited capacity, or as Phil may have said, it will be a full partial.
Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 22, 2022 from 2-4pm at George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. In keeping with current Covid restrictions, those wishing to attend the visitation must RSVP to the funeral home at 905-937-4444 as capacity is limited. Proof of double vacciation is required for all who wish to attend the visitation.