Philip A. Eigenmann

Philip A. Eigenmann MARION - 8220; Philip A. Eigenmann, 74, of Marion passed away at 7:38 p.m., Friday, May 25, 2007 at Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion, Illinois. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion with Reverend Louis Fluck presiding. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 29, 2007 with Masonic Rites at 6:30 PM at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. Mr. Eigenmann was born November 16, 1932 in Benton, Illinois to Philip J. and Sarah (Marsh) Eigenmann who preceded him in death. He graduated from Benton High School in 1950 and from Southern Illinois University (SIU) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 1956. During his formative years, it was evident that he was musically gifted, so his parents arranged for him to take the bus to St. Louis every Saturday in order for him to study under the direction of renowned Laurent Torno of the St. Louis Symphony. Throughout the years of his education, he participated in numerous musical performance competitions, always receiving superior ratings. He was most accomplished in playing the flute, piccolo, and saxophone, but was capable of playing all instruments. Mr. Eigenmann began his musical profession in 1956 as band and choral director at Marion High School as well as teaching at Marion Junior High and several elementary schools. Under his direction and instruction, the concert bands, marching bands, and choral groups consistently won regional and state competitions and received awards of excellence. He taught for thirty-two years, retiring in 1988. Although an educator by profession, he loved to perform as well. He performed with several area bands the most recent being “Danny and the Dreamers”. He also played in the orchestras for various famous musicians including Henry Mancini, Debbie Reynolds, Cher, and the Tommy Dorsey Band. Mr. Eigenmann was active in several organizations. He was a Master Mason, a Shriner, and a Member of the Marion Elks Lodge #800. Survivors include his wife, Elaine (McClanahan); daughter, Lynne Eigenmann; son, Philip D.; sister, Sara Taylor; and three grandchildren. His family by marriage includes two daughters, Laurie Chapman and Debbie Abbott; one son, Danny Davis; and eight grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Philip A. Eigenmann Scholarship Fund and can be sent c/o Blue Funeral Home, P.O. Box 411, Marion, IL 62959.