Arnold Duane Phillips (Phil), 80

On Thursday, May 1st, 2025, our beloved Arnold Duane Phillips (Phil), 80, of East Grand Forks, Minnesota, was called home to Jesus.

Phil was born to Alvin and Lorna (Barry) Phillips on September 3rd, 1944, in Waubay, South Dakota. After graduating high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Army. Upon his honorable discharge, his passion for automobiles led him to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he worked for Central Radiator Corporation.

While living in St. Paul, Phil met Arlet Setterholm—a match truly made in Heaven. They married on July 3rd, 1971, and in 1974, moved to East Grand Forks, Minnesota, where he continued working in radiator repair. Eventually, he founded and operated Forx Radiator in Grand Forks, North Dakota, leading the business with unmatched dedication for over 30 years. His work ethic was summed up in the saying, “Where there was a Phil, there was a way!” As Phil and Arlet built their home, they were blessed with two children, Chad and Holly.

Phil’s greatest joy was his family. As a devoted father, he always put his loved ones first, providing unwavering support, strength, and love. He cherished every moment as a grandpa, celebrating life’s milestones with his children and grandchildren. His kindness and loyalty extended beyond family—he formed deep, lasting friendships wherever he went, treating everyone with respect and care. Even in his final days, as memories faded, Phil never forgot the people he loved. To know him was to love him—and to be loved by him.

A faithful servant of God, Phil was an active member of Bygland Lutheran Church. He embraced the outdoors, whether working in his yard, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, spending time at the lake, or strolling Florida’s beaches. His lifelong enthusiasm for cars led him to build custom street rods and travel to car shows, forming strong connections through his memberships in the Prime Steel Car Club, Crazy 8’s Car Club, and various state and national street rod groups. A dedicated member of his community, Phil served on numerous boards and organizations and was a proud advocate for veterans, serving as a past commander of the local Disabled American Veterans Chapter. 

Phil now joins his parents, Alvin and Lorna Phillips; his father- and mother-in-law, Kenneth and Lorraine Setterholm; his brothers, Russell and Jeff Phillips; his sisters-in-law, Avis Pagnac and Shirley Setterholm; and his former brother-in-law, Duane Pagnac in Heaven.

Left to honor Phil and remember his love are his wife of 53 years, Arlet Phillips; his son, Chad (Courtney) Phillips; his daughter, Holly (Kent) Wavra; his grandchildren, Eden Roling, Samuel Phillips, Zachary Wavra, and Reighan Wavra; his brothers Ron (Lydia) Phillips, John Phillips; his sisters, Faye (Gerald) Duff-Pies, Dawn Murphy; his sister-in-law, Muriel (Lowell) Bring; his brother-in-law, Duane Setterholm; his many nieces and nephews; and his many friends who he considered family.  

 

A special thank you to all of Phil’s family, friends and caregivers, as well as the staff at Hearthstone, Valley Memorial Homes Woodside Village and Ethos Hospice for their continuous support and care.

 

Memorials may be given to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 2, Valley Memorial Chaplaincy Program, or Ethos Hospice of Grand Forks.

 

 

Visitation:  5:00-7:00 p.m. with a 6:30 p.m. Prayer Service on Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at Dahl Funeral Home, 2029 Central Avenue NW, East Grand Forks, Minnesota and also one hour prior to the funeral service on Friday.  

 

Interment and Fellowship:  Immediately following the service at Bygland Lutheran Church and Cemetery, Highway 220 South, Bygland, Minnesota.  

 

Online guestbook: www.dandahlfuneralhome.com