MENDOTA – Brian D. Phalen, 70, of Mendota passed away Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria surrounded by family. Brian suffered a heart attack in Meeker, Colo., in November, 2022 and continuing heart failure until his death.

Graveside services will be at Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery, Compton, on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 3:30 p.m., with Pastor Jeff Schlesinger officiating. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is handling arrangements. All are invited to attend the graveside service followed by a celebration of food and fellowship at 1006 S. Park Ave., Mendota.

Brian was born to Harry and Betty (Brown) Phalen on Sept. 12, 1953, at Mendota Community Hospital. He was the second of five sons; Bradley Phalen (deceased), Craig (Luci) Phalen, Kevin (Kim) Phalen and H. Todd (Lynn) Phalen.

He is survived by his wife, Holly; his daughters Tonia (Joe) Gott, Becky (Ryan) Pelka, Kim Phalen, Morgan Phalen and a son, Luke Phalen; his grandchildren Abby, Jessica, Lilly, Brayden and Marley; his great-grandchildren, Penelope and Kysen. He is also survived by his mother, Betty Phalen of Mendota; numerous nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Hollis Schlesinger; and Deb Cheek, the mother of Tonia, Becky and Kim.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Phalen, maternal grandparents, paternal grandparents and brother, Bradley.

Brian graduated from Mendota High School in 1971. He was a three-sport athlete, notably football and basketball. He briefly attended college at the University of Wyoming on a football scholarship. Throughout life his passions were fishing, hunting, farming and most importantly working hard. He owned and operated Phillips 66, Mendota, with his brother, Brad. He worked cement and concrete finishing with Rose & Newell, employment at Motor Wheel Corporation and various agricultural related jobs. His favorite hobbies were anything Massey Ferguson, Rottweilers, livestock and helping family and friends. His grandchildren enjoyed many surprise visits as he delighted in devoting special attention to them and actively sharing mutual interests. His love for farming, instilled by his Uncle Lee Hoffman, was his greatest desire. He worked tirelessly, enjoyed his friends and neighbors, and most of all, he loved his family.

Brian meant a lot of things too many people. He enjoyed a large social circle and had many friends.

Memorials may be directed to the family, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Compton or Rose Hill Hospitality House affiliated with St. Mary’s Intermountain Healthcare (as the regional medical center and only Level II Trauma Center between Denver and Salt Lake City.) Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com.