Philip E. Mountford, 81, of Belvidere, IL died Saturday afternoon, March 15, 2008 in his home after a six month battle with cancer. Philip was born May 27, 1926 in Bartlesville, OK the son of George T. and Anna (McElhaney) Mountford. He married Janette A. Cameron on August 3, 1956 in Belvidere. Prior to it's closing, Philip worked for Parson Casket Hardware as a buffer. He then worked as a security guard for several security firms including Stewart Security. Philip joined the U.S. Navy when he was 17 years old, and served our country in World War Two. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Custer in the Pacific Theater and was awarded numerous medals. Spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, was most important to Philip. In the last several years, Philip was able to spend considerable time with his extended family and friends in Oklahoma. He was a member of the V.F.W. John Hugo Kaiser Post 1461, American Legion Boone Post 77, and Eagles #3414. Philip liked to read, walk his dog in the park and was the family's genealogist. He will be missed great by his children, Kim (Mike) Pool of Rockford, Steve Mountford of Belvidere; grandchildren, Miranda and McKenzie Mountford, Michelle, Amy and Jason Pool; great grandson, Caleb Pool; special grandchildren Haley Kieser and Lindsey Coleman; sister, Nellie Nutting of Miami, OK; numerous nieces and nephews.The family wishes to acknowledge the loving care given by Sandy, Cindy, Mary, Susan, Suzanne and the staff of Heartland Hospice.Philip is predeceased by his parents; wife, Janette; daughter, Teresa; brothers, Joe, Kenneth, Melvin; sister, Lillian.

A memorial will be established in his name in care of his family.