Phillip "Phil" Ames

Phillip “Phil” Ray Ames, age 65, of rural Genoa, passed away on Monday, February 24th, 2025, surrounded by his whole world — his family. His courageous five-year battle (or shootout, as he liked to call it) with lung cancer finally came to an end. While we are mourning his loss, he leaves behind memories of his fun-loving, witty personality and his warm, loving heart. Most would agree this is the first time an Ames has arrived at their destination too early.

The second of five children born to Cecil and Geraldine (Lee) Ames, Phil was born on April 21st, 1959, in Viroqua, WI. Phil loved telling stories — often about his adventurous childhood with his siblings and cousins on the banks of the Mississippi River in De Soto, WI. He loved to reenact Western movies with his brother, Steve, and together, they would torment their sisters, Vickie, Maxine, and Lisa. When “Phlames” (a nickname that stuck with him from De Soto High) was not in school or playing for De Soto High School’s football and wrestling teams, he could be found helping at a nearby farm, where he gained his love for farming and the outdoors.

In his adult life, Phil would go on to live out any little boy’s dream. He and his brother never stopped playing “John Wayne.” Cowboys at heart, they would go on to own countless horses and volunteer for several years as the Bad Axe Marshalls at Wild West Days in Viroqua. Hunting was Phil’s therapy and boy did he do a lot of therapy. The serenity and sanctuary of a bow stand and the camaraderie of gun hunting fueled Phil’s passion every fall. Professionally, Phil spent many years trucking cattle and fuel, working construction, and logging with his cousin Lars. But it was the peaceful lifestyle and compassion towards animals that kept him farming. Those who knew him rarely spotted him away from the farm. Some will say it’s the “stubborn Ames” in him, or his disdain for public restrooms, but home was always where Phil was the happiest.

In his early twenties, he loved hanging out with his friends, often at Joe Gillespie’s house. It was there he met the love of his life, Karla (Johnson). They married on April 30, 1983, and settled into the farmhouse on her family’s farm. Soon after, they started a family of their own, welcoming home Kristopher, Jonathan, and Katie (Johnson). Phil and Karla made sacrifices, and together poured everything they had into making sure their kids were set up to thrive. Phil’s kids remember him as being a very loving dad whose stern tone could quickly motivate someone behind on chores. He showed up for them, attending nearly every sporting event. As much as Phil loved his children, he would be the first to say that being a grandpa was his proudest achievement. The only thing that made him smile more than holding a deer was holding his grandkids. He was quick to brag about his five grandkids: Drew, Addison, Everly, Grayson, and Mattis, and he was proud to let you know about the two on the way. He was quick with a tickle, a snack, or a snuggle. His booming voice, yet tender enough to console them, would greet them with a “Where’s Gampa’s boy?” or “How’s Gampa’s little princess?” Doting on his grandchildren was his true calling.

Phil lived his life the way he thought life should be lived. He did so by bringing joy and laughter to those around him and loving his family tirelessly. He fought with everything he had, but in the end, it wasn’t up to him. His life-long idol, John Wayne, once said, “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” Rest easy Ol’ Cowboy, we’ll take the reins from here.

Phil was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Cecil and Geraldine (Lee) Ames; loving parents-in-law, Odean and Darlene Johnson; several aunts and uncles; and a handful of dependable farm dogs and horses.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Karla (Johnson); his loyal sidekick, Buster; his three lucky children Kris (Alicia) Ames, Jon (Bria) Ames, and Katie (Kevin) Johnson; and his pride and joy, seven grandbabies: best friend-Andrew ‘Drew’ Hanson (14), Addison ‘Addie’ Ames (6), Everly ‘Evy’ Ames (4), Grayson ‘Gray’ Ames (3), Mattis Ames (3), and two more miracles due any day. He is also survived by his trusty steed, Shomar; endearing siblings Vickie (Gary) Kumlin, Maxine Woodhouse, Lisa (Brad) Willie, and Steven (Doreen) Ames; his cousins and dear friends Orin Ames and Lars Ames; and dozens of nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

The family would like to thank friends and neighbors who have lent a hand over the years.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Friday, March 14th, 2025, at Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home in Viroqua. Kathy Horn (Karla’s sister) will officiate. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the service at noon. A luncheon will be held immediately following the service. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com.

Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Phil's family

123 W. Decker St.

Viroqua, WI 54665

608-637-2100