Funeral Details

Phillip “Phil” Zagon, age 89.
Beloved husband of Vivian “Vicki” nee Heackley. Loving father of Caryn (Samuel) Shulman, Lauren (Tod) Canon and Glenn (Cheryl Covici) Zagon, and father-in-law of the late Melissa Zagon. Proud grandfather of Ben Shulman, Matthew (Sarah) Canon, Sydney Canon, Hannah Zagon and the late Sara Shulman. Dear brother of Renee (the late Herbert) Meyerson and the late Martin Zagon.

Born and raised in the Humboldt Park neighborhood in Chicago, Phil was a man of exceptional character and boundless generosity. His love for his family knew no bounds, and his devotion to his beloved wife Vicki was a cornerstone of his life. Throughout the years, he affectionately referred to her as his "bride," a testament to the enduring love they shared.

A proud Chicagoan through and through, he was an avid supporter of Chicago sports teams. His passion for the Bears and the Cubs was unparalleled and he found immense joy in cheering them on with friends and family. While Phil adored and cherished his family and lifelong friends, his greatest achievement was meeting a young woman named Vivian Pearl Heackley after his time in the service as an Army paratrooper. On their first date he showed up to her house wearing blue suede shoes. Let's just say, young Vicki needed a little prodding for a second date and that began one of the greatest love stories ever told that lasted over 65 years.

Phil faced adversity early in life when he lost his father at 12 years old. To support his widowed mother and siblings, he worked in a drugstore and delivered newspapers. His commitment to family continued during his military service, choosing to be a paratrooper for the extra $50 monthly pay, which he sent home to help his family. After marriage, Phil's entrepreneurial journey began, starting a printing business from scratch. His grit and unwavering dedication not only sustained his family but also inspired many, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience and love.

Outside of his career, Phil was also deeply involved in the community. His leadership and passion for making a difference was evident in dedication to B'nai B'rith as President of the Midwest Region and Treasurer of Sports Lodge, where he volunteered his time and efforts to various philanthropic endeavors for over 50 years. He also spent his free time gathering coupons so he could stock up on things like toilet paper and tinfoil that he would generously offer to his children.

Phil will be fondly remembered for his warm heart, infectious laughter, genuine kindness, and his incredible sense of humor. His quick wit and ability to find humor in any situation brought joy and laughter to those around him. His presence in the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him will be deeply missed, leaving behind a void that can never be filled.

Service Tuesday 1PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road (1 block north of Lake Cook Road) Buffalo Grove. Interment Shalom. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight, Box L-4016, Columbus, OH 43260-4016, www.honorflight.org. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals – Buffalo Grove Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com