Obituary of Philip Nathan Moulds

Philip Nathan Moulds, known affectionately as Phil to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at the age of 91 in Saginaw, MI. Born on August 8, 1934, in Munising, MI, Phil lived a life marked by devotion to his family, a tireless work ethic, and a funny sense of humor that brought joy to all who knew him.

Phil's journey began as the beloved son of Nate and Jenny (Prudhomme) Moulds, where his early years were filled with the simple pleasures of small-town life. Raised with his 6 siblings, he spent his early years running the streets and beaches of Munising. He had many funny tales to share of the troubles he and his friends would find themselves in. His path later led him to Saginaw, MI where he met the love of his life, his wife of almost 66 years, Patricia Moulds. Together they built a family that would be his pride and joy. Phil was a cherished father to Penny (David) Darling, Patrice (Michael) Darling, and Paul Moulds. He found further delight in his role as a grandfather to Scott (Sara) Darling, Ashley (Eric) Crane, Emily (Matt) Fleischmann, Nicholas Darling, and Austin Darling, and was overjoyed to be blessed with his great-grandchildren Carter, Kenzie, and Colson Crane, Amelia and Lydia Fleischmann, and Nathan Everts, who all adored their 'Papa Phil.' He was their biggest fan as he attended many dance recitals, soccer games, and baseball games. He is also survived by his sister Peach Niedzewiecki, his brother Jim Moulds, and many adored nieces, nephews and "adopted" children. He was preceded in death by his wonderful wife Pat, whom he was eager to be with again after just a few short months apart, and by his parents, brothers Robert Moulds, Samuel Moulds and Thomas Moulds, and sister Blanche Fellion.

For almost four decades, Phil dedicated himself to his work at Steering Gear, where his colleagues not only relied on his expertise but also looked forward to his camaraderie. Known as "Popcorn", Phil was proud to have worked in almost every plant over his many years there. His post-retirement years were filled with babysitting his grandkids and great-grandkids, maintaining the facilities at Rally's Hamburgers and later bringing smiles to children's faces as a bike builder at Toys R Us. Phil's hands were rarely still, as he found joy and purpose in fixing and 'tinkering' with anything that needed repair. He had the rare ability to turn every task into an opportunity to teach. When he finally retired at the young age of 86, he could be found finally relaxing in his chair and sleeping through a Tigers Game. 

Phil was a man of many words and he never met a stranger. His happy place was their seasonal lot in Muskegon, where he would often be found wandering onto random campsites to introduce himself and tell his stories to anyone who would listen. He met many close friends there who shared his fun sense of humor and love for the outdoors. To be teased by Phil was to be loved by him. He was known for his funny nicknames and words he would make up, for singing to his own made up lyrics of songs, for his long-winded stories often told on repeat, and for his terrible dance moves. He was especially blessed with the titles "baby whisperer" and "favorite uncle" to many.

Described by those who knew him as sweet, loving, and funny, Phil's legacy is one of a life well-lived and well-loved. He will be remembered for his quick wit and his ability to bring laughter to any gathering. He was a husband, dad, grandpa, uncle, and friend who was always there when you needed him the most. His absence will be deeply felt, but the memories he created will continue to bring smiles and warmth to the hearts of those who knew him. As we bid farewell to Philip Nathan Moulds, we celebrate a life full of love, laughter, and the happiness of a man who was truly content with the simple pleasures of life. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.