Philip Gilbert Palacios, 86

Published 4:11 pm Thursday, April 17, 2025

Philip Gilbert Palacios, 86

Philip Gilbert Palacios, 86, went to be with his Lord on April 9, 2025, in Austin, Minnesota. Born on July 4, 1938, in Toledo, Ohio. Son of Gilbert P. Palacios and Jean Brozozowicz. He met his wife Paula Rockwell at Open Bible College, Des Moines, Iowa in 1969. They were married in Austin, Mn. Dec 31,1972. Paula immediately took into her life and heart Philip’s 4 children Philip Anthony, Vincent, Kathryn and Christopher. After graduating from Bible College, the family moved to Fountian Valley. California.

Philip spent his early years in Toledo, Ohio before moving to Flint, Michigan, where he completed high school. Over his lifetime He contributed extensively to the field of addiction/alcoholism education. As a recovering alcoholic himself he had compassion for those suffering from the terrible disease. He established alcoholism programs for the state of Michigan and later as Program Director of Beverly Manor Hospital, Orange, Ca.

Phil spent a significant period of his life serving his Lord in various Christian ministries. As graduates of Open Bible College, Des Moines, Iowa, Phil and Paula’s ministry involved planting their Inner Life Christian Fellowship church in Fountain Valley, California in July 1977. They had the privilege of pastoring their ILCF flock for 18 years. They also had the privilege of working with and traveling to Ghana, Africa to minister with their “brother” Kwame Mensah. They participated in a number of chaplaincies over the years. Phil taught Judo at Austin Chistian Judo Club in Austin, MN. for several years.

Philip was very proud of his military service. From 1956 to 1959, Philip served honorably as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps while stationed in Okinawa. He always had stories to tell of his time in the service.

Philip was a gifted judo instructor who found joy in teaching discipline and physical strength. He also loved being outdoors tending to his gardens, wild prairie flowers, etc. Always taking any opportunity to visit with anyone passing by. He always took advantage of opportunities to share his testimony and faith. That is how Inner Life Christian Fellowship was born. Each person was special. Everyone was welcomed!! A fun motto for our young people “Everyone’s a winner at Inner Life”!

Even as he was plagued by health issues requiring walkers, wheelchairs, bed rest he always stayed active and involved. For the past several years his wife/caregiver Paula was always by his side, caring for him, encouraging him. Their home was filled with music, prayer, singing, laughter. Philip is now “face to face” with his Lord! Phil especially loved singing, writing poetry, Judo, sharing of himself and his testimony with people.

Philip is lovingly remembered by his wife Paula Palacios; sons Tony (Brenda) Palacios, Vincent (Susan) Palacios, and Christopher (Toshia) Palacios; and daughter Kathy (Marti Boss) Palacios; Grandchildren, Philip J. (Bekah), Andrew, Tessa, Amanda, Luke, Nathan, Cylas, Issac, Eva (Joe) Bell, Jennah, Mia, Elias. Brother, Donald; sister, Donna (Lee) Jarboe. Also, many cousins, etc. He was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert Palacios; mother, Jean Brozozowicz;  Joyce Weatherly Palacios; brother, Richard Palacios; sister-in- law, Joyce Palacios; Nephew, Matthew Palacios.

A memorial service is being planned in California where most of the family reside. A small gathering of family and friends will also take place in Austin, Minnesota. Details to come.