Philip C. Griffith

Philip C. Griffith, 99, passed away after a brief illness, just 6 months shy of the big 100. He was surrounded by family and friends at his home when he embarked on his new journey. Phil graduated from Stanford University before WWII sent him to Italy. Upon his return, he married Harriet Armstrong, and went to work at his family business in Wichita as a food broker. Phil was an avid duck hunter, golfer and tennis player, and enjoyed gigging frogs in his younger years. He was an exercise enthusiast throughout his life. He rarely missed a day at the gym, and always touted the benefits of exercise to everyone he met whether he knew them or not, and whether they wanted to hear it or not! His longevity, phenomenal memory, and ability to maintain his independence until the end is proof of the benefits of exercise. "Youve got to keep moving!" was his motto. He believed strongly in giving to the community, and did so through the Red Cross, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Meals on Wheels. He raised thousands of dollars annually for Big Brothers a special thanks to all of his wonderful sponsors over the years! He was sure that at Big Brothers he learned more from his little, Michael, than Michael did from him. Phil also adopted a philosophy that you should live for today. He would say, "Today is yours. God has taken all of your yesterdays back, and hes holding all of your tomorrows out of reach. Live this day so you can say at its end that you have lived, loved, and helped someone in need." Phil is predeceased by his wife Harriet, and survived by his two daughters Gretchen (Michael) and Edie (Bruce), and grandsons Seth and Tyler. Visitation is being held from 4:00 to 7:00 on January 28, 2017. Contact Downing & Lahey Mortuary East, 316-682-4553, for additional information regarding visitation. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of your time to Meals on Wheels or Big Brothers Big Sisters. And take Phils philosophy on life with you as engage in each day!