Phillip Tissue Obituary

Phillip Ellsworth Tissue, affectionately known as “Old Man”, age 76, of Sidney, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025 at home under the care of The Care Team Hospice with his family by his side. The son of Ellsworth & Bonnie (Smith) Tissue, he was born on December 16, 1948 in Alma, Michigan.

“Old Man” attended Crystal School through the 8th grade, and graduated in 1966 from Carson City Schools. A proud veteran of the United States Army and the Michigan National Guard ‘s 1073rd Maintenance Unit, he served our country during both the Vietnam War and Desert Shield/Storm. Phillip attained the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. On December 11, 2004, he married Constance Sue Dragoo, and together they enjoyed over 20 years of marriage and adventure. 

When he wasn’t racing his 1980 T-bird down Sidney Road doing burn outs and black marks, “Old Man” could be found puttering around on anything with an engine, going to car shows all around the state of Michigan, and toy hunting with his boys. His time outdoors was filled with fishing with his best friend Roger Lebeck, planting trees and flowers in the yard, and spending time with his family. 

“Old Man” was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son, Donald E. Tissue; his brother and sister-in-law, Jeff & Jennifer Tissue; a son-in-law, Andrew Knudsen; and a nephew, William Tissue. Surviving are his wife, Connie Tissue; his children, Phillip L. Kiogima, Sarah Knudsen, Douglas (Jill) Bronson, Bobby, and Kevin; grandchildren, David, Tyler, Kirstan (Cody), and Brenton, Jaylen, Kaden, and Taryn; great-grandchildren, Waylon, Leim, Jase, Silas, and Lewie; and two brothers, Leonard Tissue and Robin Tissue; many nieces and nephews, and cousins. 

In honor of “Old Man”, we encourage everyone to share their favorite memories of him and upload photos on his memorial page. Let's remember Phillip for the laughter he brought into our lives and the love he had for his family and friends. Whether it was a joke he told, his knack for raising chickens and peacocks, or his ability to leave the most impressive "black mark" on Sidney Road, let's celebrate the life of our beloved "Old Man.” 

At "Old Man's" request, no formal services will be held and a gathering of family and friends will be held and announced later. Instead of flowers, contributions in memory of “Old Man” may be directed to the family. 

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign “Old Man’s” online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com 

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.