Philip Edward Cherry

Philip Edward Cherry, age 87, of West Jordan, Utah passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, due to complications from acute myeloid leukemia.

Philip was born on April 19, 1938, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Edward A. Cherry and Ethel Clara Milhiem. He was raised alongside his sister, Angela Shaffer, and his brother, Alan B. Stuart, both of whom preceded him in death.

He graduated from Union High School in Grand Rapids, where he was actively involved in swimming, football, and the ROTC program. Following graduation, Philip proudly served his country in the United States Navy for two years. He later pursued studies in engineering at junior college.

Philip built a distinguished career in the power and energy industry. He began working with Consumers Power at the Muskegon plant and later transferred to the South Haven Nuclear Plant. To further his expertise, he attended the Borg Institute in Chicago, Illinois. Over the years, his work took him across the country, including time in Ohio assisting in the startup of a nuclear facility, and later to Utah, where he contributed to the development of the Army incinerator in Tooele. He also worked at Geneva Steel and ATK before retiring.

In 1967, Philip married Susan Leslie Anderson. Together they built a loving family, raising three children - two sons and a daughter. Their daughter came special delivery from Seoul, Korea, completing their family.

Following retirement, Philip remained active and engaged in the Salt Lake Valley community. He was an avid swimmer, regularly swimming at the Kearns Recreation Center and competing for many years in the Huntsman Senior Games. Even as his health declined, he continued to enjoy swimming whenever he could.

Philip is survived by his three children, Scott (Marie) Cherry, Brad (Daniela) Cherry, and Heather Cherry; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one granddaughter.

Philip will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and his active spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

There will be a viewing for family and friends on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 10 - 10:45 AM at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah.  A Funeral Service will follow beginning at 11 AM at the same location.  Interment will be at Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 South Redwood Road, Bluffdale, Utah.