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Philip Joseph House, 72, of Westbrook, died peacefully Aug. 9 at Smilow Cancer Hospital surrounded by family and friends. Phil courageously battled cancer for a number of years, but the disease never defined him as he fought with courage and grace, becoming an inspiration to those who accompanied him on his difficult journey.

Phil grew up in the Parkville section of Hartford and never forgot his formative years centered around Our Lady of Sorrows parish. He graduated from Our Lady of Sorrows Grammar School and joined the LaSalette Missionary order beginning with high school in 1960. An outstanding scholar/athlete, Phil led LaSalette to the Connecticut Class S basketball championship in 1964 and was selected a member of the All-State team. Although he left the order in 1969, Phil’s years with LaSalette provided a spiritual and intellectual foundation that carried through his life and work in all the years that followed. After graduating from Merrimack College, Phil taught and coached basketball at South Catholic High School in Hartford, St. Bernard’s High School in Montville, and Hand High School in Madison. As an assistant principal at Stonington High School and as principal of Westbrook Middle School, where he served for 26 years, Phil influenced scores of students, families, and teachers with his dedication to teaching and learning.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Pat, his son Chris and his daughter-in-law Jesse, his granddaughter Harper Mae, his son Brendan and Brendan’s girlfriend Linsey, all who have brought immeasurable joy to Phil’s life. He also leaves behind an extended family, many dear friends and neighbors who loved and supported him unconditionally. Phil was predeceased by his parents Russell and Kathryn of Hartford; his sister Fran of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and brother Tom of Webster, New York.

Special thanks to the 7th floor nursing and support staff of Smilow Hospital for their wonderful care and love.

Visitation will be held on Aug. 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, 34 Main St., Centerbrook. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Aug. 16 at St. Mark the Evangelist Church, 222 McVeagh Rd. in Westbrook, followed by burial in Resurrection Cemetery, Rte. 145 in Westbrook. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Phil’s name to the Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr., Westbrook, CT 06498, or to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at 383 Main Ave., Norwalk, CT 06851. To share a memory of Phil or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com.