Phil was born in Wayne, Michigan on January 19, 1940. He was predeceased by his father, Hubert Marcotte, stepfather, Lyman Sherman, and mother, Helen (Weinert) Sherman.

Phil is survived by his wife, Dolly; three daughters, Angela (Ken) Aizawa, Barbara Menchaca, Beverly Orozco; two stepchildren, Kim (Todd) Davis, Joe (Shannon) Wagner; two brothers, William (Rachel) Marcotte and Ted (Pat) Marcotte; the mother of his children, Judith Marcotte; 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Phil graduated from Wolverine High School in 1957 and then attended Alpena Community College. In 1961 he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving four years. He earned a degree in Electronics Engineering from Michigan Technological University and worked many years for Consumers Power. He transitioned to academia, becoming a professor at Ferris State University, teaching Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology. He earned his Master of Career and Technical Education degree and became Department Head of Electronics. In 2000, Phil retired.

Phil enjoyed hunting, fishing, flying his airplane, music and playing piano, photography, woodworking, gardening, traveling, and a game of Dominoes with friends. He served on several mission trips, was a handyman for the elderly through the senior center and maintained his church building. Phil was a member of Pleasant View Church, Experimental Aircraft Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Ham Club, Samaritan's Purse and International Aid.

Phil was the patriarch of his family, a pillar in his church, and an integral part of his community. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.