Phillip Gonzales Contreras, age 91 of North Platte, passed away Tuesday December 12, 2017 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE.
Phillip was born on March 26, 1926 in Chanute, KS to Cosmo and Concha “Pearl” (Gonzales) Contreras. He lived in Crook, CO until the age of 10 when he moved with his family to North Platte in 1936. He married Amanda L. Tappan in Lexington, NE. He joined the US Marines in 1952 and served stateside during the Korean War. After his discharge he returned to North Platte where he worked for PFE on the Railroad, and for the Armor Packing Plant. He later became a dealer for Saladmaster, selling cookware. He found his calling with this career and with his charismatic personality became very successful.
Phillip is survived by his children, Sharon (Jim) Ruffing of North Platte, Phyllis Contreras of North Platte, Phillip Jr. (Jennifer) Contreras of North Platte, Andrea Contreras of Lincoln, NE and Stephanie (Ed) Contreras – Tucker of North Platte; 7 grandchildren, Kimberly Contreras of Portland, OR, Shelly Patzer of Pierre, SD, Brad Contreras of Lincoln, NE, Greg Contreras of North Platte, Seth Pflaster of Omaha, NE, Nick Pflaster of Hastings, NE, and Max Contreras of North Platte; sisters Rose Jurado of North Platte and Mickey Perez of TX; brother Joe Contreras of Omaha, NE; as well as numerous extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife Amanda in January 2017.
Memorials are suggested to Amazing Facts, P.O. Box 1058, Roseville, CA 95678-8058
and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday December 22, 2017 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church with Reverend Joseph Carty officiating. Burial will follow at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Thursday December 21, 2017 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.