Philip Bird

Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philip Keith Bird, age 85, of Saginaw, was called home to Heaven by our Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The son of Keith and Doris (Thon) Bird, Phil was born March 20, 1941, in Saginaw, Michigan. He married Donna Kackmeister on June 3, 1961, and together they shared 65 years of marriage.

Known lovingly as “Bumpa” by his family, Phil was a graduate of Arthur Hill High School and spent his career at General Motors, where he served as a General Superintendent. He was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church. Phil loved the sport of shooting, watching his grandchildren play any and every sport, spending time in AuGres, and being part of his church community. But above all, he loved his family. He had a generous and giving heart, always finding ways to spoil his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To them, he was like a year-round Santa Claus—not simply because of the gifts he gave, but because of the joy, generosity, and unconditional love he poured into them. Most importantly, Phil loved the Lord and always taught his family, “Do your best and let Jesus do the rest.” His faith, love, and example will live on in all who knew him.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Bird; loving children, Robin (Jeff) Scherting, Stacy (Matt) Lahaie, and Melisa (Tom) Bernelis; adored grandchildren, Zach (Alex) Scherting, Jessica (Mike) Kanyo, Becca Scherting, Chelsea (Aaron) Salas, Ben Ott, Jake Bird, Lindsey (Dennis) Bernelis, and Eve Bernelis; treasured great-grandchildren, Zeb, Shep, and baby boy Scherting coming soon; Ranger and Trace Kanyo; Hunter and Izzy Salas; and Layne, Lilly, and Dennis Bernelis; sister-in-law, Barb (Kirk) Redburn; and sister-in-law  and brother-in-law,  Nancy  and Ronald Meyers; and several cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Doris Bird; brother, James Bird; and his mother and father-in-law, Clarence and Huldah Kackmeister, and nephew, Mark Myers.

A special thank you to all who have provided care, prayers, and support to the family of Phil Bird.

A memorial visitation for Phil will take place on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until the celebration of life at 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 3427 Adams Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan 48602. Rev. Matthew Hauser will officiate.

Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donating to Peace Lutheran School of Saginaw.

For information, please contact Fischer Family Funeral Services at (989) 755-8277. To express your condolences, please visit www.fischerfuneral.com.