Capt. Phil: A Celebration of Life

Posted on February 21, 2010 - by Morgan Howard

Capt. Phil: A Celebration of Life

Discovery Channel hosted a memorial service for Capt. Phil’s family and friends today. It was an event most agreed Phil would have loved. F/V Cornelia Marie crew members flew in from the Bering Sea to join former crew members and other Bering Sea captains. Many of the “Deadliest Catch” boat captains were in attendance to pay their respects to their friend and fellow fisherman. The Alaska Crab fishing fleet is close knit and many fishermen know each other.

Everyone always said Phil enjoyed “playing with his toys”, so it was fitting to have a beautiful Harley Davidson in the corner. On the walls hung many images of Capt. Phil and the Cornelia Marie crew.

After some words from Josh, Jake and other close friends and family, Discovery showed a specially edited video highlighting the best of Capt. Phil. The video was very well done, narrated by Mike Rowe himself.

One of the most emotional speeches was from Todd Stanley, long time Cornelia Marie camera person. Todd spent “hundreds of hours” and “hundreds of days” side by side in the wheelhouse with Phil. During that time, Todd and Phil became very close friends. Crew members even described their relationship like “an old married couple”. When Phil had to leave because of a blood clot two years ago, Todd was there. When Phil had a stroke and was medivacked to Anchorage, Todd was again there by his side. Todd was assigned to cover the Skipper as his job, but came away with a good friend and years of great memories.

Thank you to Todd and all the other “Deadliest Catch” camera operators. It’s a difficult job with little recognition. Learn more about Todd here.

This was a private memorial for friends and family, but many of you have followed Capt. Phil and the Cornelia Marie since the beginning and are like extended family… so I wanted to share a little of this day with you. Thank you to everyone who has sent in beautiful letters, emails and comments.

A public memorial will most likely be held during the annual “CatchCon” hosted by Discovery.

This entry was posted on Sunday, February 21st, 2010 at 11:42 pm and is filed under Featured, Remembering Capt. Phil. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

277 Comments

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July 2, 2010

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Debbie said:

My prayers go out to Josh and Jake Harris, even though I never got to be your dad, I really loved him. Never knew my real dad but if I did, I would have hoped he’d be like Phil in every way. Josh take care of his ship and the legacy, even though your dad thought Jake would take the ship, I always knew you were the best one to do it from the beginning. Get better Jake I know you can but it is all up to you, do it for yourself and your dad he would be proud. My prayers also go out to the crew, Sig, Keith, Wild Bill, Andy and Johnathan for they loss a great friend and collegue, especially the Hillstrands and Sig Hansen. Just remember Phil is with all of you forever and his love for all of you will be there as well no matter wher you go in the future. Rest In Peace And Happy Fishing in Heaven, Catch The Best Up There You Deserve It!!
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July 2, 2010

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Debbie said:

My prayers go out to Josh and Jake Harris, even though I never got to meet your dad, I really loved him. Never knew my real dad but if I did, I would have hoped he’d be like Phil in every way. Josh take care of his ship and the legacy, even though your dad thought Jake would take the ship, I always knew you were the best one to do it from the beginning. Get better Jake I know you can but it is all up to you, do it for yourself and your dad he would be proud. My prayers also go out to the crew, Captains Sig, Keith, Wild Bill, Andy and Johnathan for they loss a great friend and collegue, especially the Hillstrands and Sig Hansen. Just remember Phil is with all of you forever and his love for all of you will be there as well no matter wher you go in the future. Rest In Peace And Happy Fishing in Heaven, Catch The Best Up There You Deserve It!!
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July 2, 2010

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Kellie said:

Boys, your daddy was my favorite of all the skippers, partly because he reminded me of my own daddy – tough and all business when he needed to be but a big teddy bear on the inside – and a well-liked guy by the many who knew him. I lost him too soon because of his health problems, also. The main thing you will always have, even now, is the knowledge that no matter what, your daddy loved you, and that is something that you will always have at your side and in your heart, even tho he may not be physically with you. He loved you so much and was so proud of you, and you both have learned so much from him and will make him proud. God bless you and your family, and all the best of luck to you in the future with whatever you do! *huge hugs*
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July 4, 2010

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Keith Schumacher said:

RIP Captain Phil. Here’s a song for you– excuse my pitchy voice. :-)
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July 5, 2010

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sherry nigro said:

My prayers go out to you, Josh and Jake. He was very proud of the both of you, you could see that by the way he talked about you on camera when you weren’t around. Deadliest Catch won’t be the same with him. I will miss him. Be sage on the seas. He will be your guardian angel on deck.

Always,
sherry
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July 5, 2010

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Mary said:

It is so hard to watch DC knowing Phil is gone…sure wish I could have met him..but yet I am so enriched more so seeng him on TV…and that he was a part of my life.
R.I.P. Phil, you are truely missed.

Jake and Josh…I pray and hope that you will be carrying on your dad legacy..
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July 7, 2010

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Connie Rogers said:

I have such a hard time watching the show the past few weeks without crying. I feel like I know these people and from day 1 Capt. Phil has always been my favorite. There is a hole in this world without him here. Josh and Jake please take care of one another, It seemed to me like all Phil wanted was his family to get along well and be happy. Be safe. Lots of love and good thoughts comming you way!
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July 7, 2010

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Candy Cook said:

I grew up on a sailboat with my Dad… like Phil, he was a fair man and a great captain.. but even as a girl, I had to pull my weight. Phil… may the wind always be at your back and the sky be red at night.. you will be missed so much.. to Josh and Jake.. stay the course your Dad set for you. Jake, I too am a recovering addict.. you can do it honey…write to me if you want to, I promise I will write back to you. Praying for all the men who make their living crab fishing..
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July 10, 2010

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Kevin said:

I’ve watched DC for about a year now. It amazes me how these men endure the hardships they go through. I don’t know much about fishing but you guys have earned the respect of all your viewers for what you do.
It’s sad to see Capt. Phil go – he will be sorely missed. Best of luck to Josh and Jake and all the other fishermen out there.
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July 11, 2010

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hannah rose said:

my granny really loved phil. i watch the show with her every tuesday. it really hurt her when she found out he was dead so i would have to say she is the #1 fan by far. she tapes the parts of phil on the show. she even says she probably wont watch it since he will not be on there. i even said durning the show when jake told his dad he was an addict, i told my granny i would go with jake to the meeting. the show is like my life on tuesdays. we have plans to watch all of them till phil is not on there any more. my granny really loved him even if she never met him. they seem so much a like in many many ways!
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July 11, 2010

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Mainegirl said:

At this time, words fail me, so, I’ll let Jimmy Buffett speak for me. Forgive me if this is long.
“I have been drunk now for over 2 weeks, I’ve passed out and I’ve rallied and I’ve sprung a few leaks. But I gotta stop bitchin’ gotta go fishin’, down to rock bottom again.Just a few friends, just a few friends”
Jimmy Buffett-A-1A

For ALL of the fleet, another JB quote.
“Son of son, son of a son, son of son, of a sailor. Son of a gun, load the last ton, one step ahead of the jailer.
Son of son (x3)of a sailor, the seas in my veins the tradition remains, I’m just glad I don’t live in a trailer”(no offense meant to folks who live in trailers!)For those in the know, White over Red. Godspeed Phil
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July 11, 2010

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Ric Vittum said:

I always looked forward to watching your show Phil, in my eyes, you were me without my diblitating illnesses brought on by 12 years of service in the US Army. You were 3 months younger than my youngest brother. You made me laugh, you made me cry, you made me think of my own longevity… most of all, you kept me fighting. Please Jake, as you promised your dad, get the help you need to kick the habit. Josh, always be there for him. It’s hard, but he needs you, and you remind me always of my own son. You are a good man Josh, tell Freddie he did good, because you were there at the end, you would have regretted it till the end of your own.
Love you guys, a shout out to all the Captains that were a FRIEND/FAMILY to Phil Harries. I will sorely miss him on the FV Cornelia Marie.
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July 12, 2010

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Becky VanMeveren said:

I want to send my deepest sympathy to JOSH & JAKE HARRIS. It was such a sad day when your father passed away.I didn’t know your dad personally, but I felt like I did.He seemed like a great guy & also a great father to both of you. And he loved you so much. My whole family has been watching Deadliest Catch from day 1. When we can’t be home, we record it.You must know how many people/fans love you & wish for the best for you. I will keep you in my prayers. And to all the crews on all the other ships as well. You all seem like one big happy family.God bless you & stay safe!!!
Becky V
P.S. I would like to say that I’d like to see you both quit smoking. I saw you in an interview Josh, with one of the smoking devices & I hope you’re having good luck with that. Good luck to both of you!!
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July 12, 2010

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Holly K said:

I also want to send out my deepest empathy to the Harris brothers. I lost my mom when she was 46 (I was 22). Losing a parent when they are so young is extremely hard to deal with. I hope you both are doing as good as to be expected and possibly even better. Take the lesson that life is to short live each moment as though it could be your last and you will have no regrets.

You both are in our thoughts and prayers.
Holly K
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July 13, 2010

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Robin said:

My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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July 13, 2010

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kd bourne said:

I have watched the DC since its beginning with my wife and we were always in awe of the bravery and courage these men have in doing their job. I don’t think many of us here in the lower 48 realize how these guys put their lives on the line for us to have food on our tables. Me and my wife Annie send our warmest regards to the Harris family and may God bless and keep these men in doing what we all take for granted. When I learned of Phil stroke and his subsequent death…I must admit, I cried like he was a family member. I will be watching this episode of DC with a heavy heart.

kd bourne
elk grove, CA
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July 14, 2010

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Anthony S. said:

My condolences go out to you 2 boys. I have been a big fan of your father. He was a no nonsense guy. I have watched DC since it aired. Phil, you will be missed as you soar with the Eagles and ride on the wings of Angels.
Anthony S.
Dandridge, TN
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July 14, 2010

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Noble1 said:

God grant that I may live to fish
For another shining day,
But when my final cast is made
I then most humbly pray,
When nestled in your landing net
As I lay peacefully asleep,
You’ll smile at me and judge
That I’m “good enough to keep.”

Hail to the Captain! May you sail when the sun rises and ride when the sun sets.

Tap your shot glass twice to honor the fallen please. Here-Here
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July 14, 2010

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Ken Keidel said:

Where can I get the T-shirts that the other capts were wearing during the ‘After the catch’ show with Capt Phil on it.
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July 21, 2010

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Mary said:

my heart aches for Josh and Jake. He as an amazing man! He was so full of life and lived it to the fullest. To the other skippers, my hats are off to you all. you have embraced his son’s as your own, and I know they will be in good hands, as long as they have all of you.
I lost my husband, two years ago, and he was the same age as Phil. He loved to watch the show, and I think he really felt a connection to Phil. Phil’s legacy will live on… boys you got some shoes to fill, make him proud!
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July 23, 2010

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Michele Davis said:

My heart goes out to Josh, Jake and the crew of the Cornelia Marie. I have had tears in my eyes the last several weeks watching the show, knowing what is going to happen. Phil is my favorite captain. RIP Phil, you will be missed.
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July 23, 2010

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brenda r. said:

I am so sorry for you Jake an Josh .We all lost a very good man, years to soon. May God be with you during this time of sorrow. You know he loved you guys more than anything and wants you to succeed in life. Jake one day at a time, do it for you, that will make him proud. To all the other fisherman/crew we feel your pain as well. Good luck be safe on the sea. Look and listen for him and you will see he is still there in spirit watching over you guys. Now he isnt sick or hurting anymore—just laughing that beautiful laugh.

brenda
bay st. louis,MS
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July 26, 2010

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DaShane Watkins said:

It’s hard for me to type when my fingers shake, and my eye’s our filled up with water. Being a founder of a paranormal organization, makes me certain that Phil’s spirit will never die. I have read all of the comments from this page and each time I read one I cry even more. My keyboard is yelling out “mayday” because of all the water it has taken on. Seeing Phil’s sons carry on through this gives me strength for when I lose my parents. I will continue to watch the show as long as it airs. I know that all eyes will be on the Cornelia Marie and the rest of the fleet from Dutch Harbor. I am a male that is 33 years old and is from Cincinnati, Ohio. If there was ever anything I could do to help the crew over there out, I wouldn’t hesitate to do so. Being the founder of Spiritual H.O.P.E Society and a Researcher for the paranormal field for over 10 years I have this to say to the fleet: “You sail on waters that spirits control and when you call on them for help they will be there to guide you and protect each and every one of you in your time of need”. I am privileged to have the opportunity to see Phil and the rest of the brave soldiers that fish The Bering Sea of Alaska. I hope that your dad turns up, Jake Anderson. I have never seen another man my age go through such hard times as you have. You have a heart of a lion and you are a great man, and my favorite. I know your sister will guide your dad through the light. No matter if it’s the after life, or the light from a flashlight that searches for him in the woods. I hope you read this and I hope you all keep safe. Thank you all for being a part of my life and I thank you all for putting your lives on the line every day and night just so we can have the best crab in the world on our plates. My heart beats strong for all of you at sea.
DaShane Watkins
http://www.spiritualhopsosciety.com
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July 28, 2010

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cody said:

I just recently found out about his death its been months but i am struck by his loss Phil was my favorite captain and when i found out about his death i cried … i may not have known him in real life but it still struck me .. my thoughts and condolences are with the Harris Family R.i.p Phil Harris
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August 7, 2010

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Rachael said:

I never met Phil but his love and passion and humor was one of the things that drew me to turn into the Deadliest Catch every week. I think I love Phil the most cause of the way he was a father to Josh and Jake. Next is the Hilstrands and then Sig and Edgar….without them ’seasoned’ fisherman that are just amazing human beings I never would have been trapped into watching a reality TV show. I don’t watch ANY other reality TV shows and in general hate them all, but what they do IS so amazing and dangerous. Yeah cutting down trees is…but your logging. You are destroying nature. Yeah…Oil Rigs are dangerous…but your company doesn’t know how to FIX what they F*CK UP. So I watch the fisherman. Cause there have been fisherman since before Christ, before paper. It’s REAL work…and the only thing that will END it is what WE DO TO DESTROY THE PLANET.
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August 7, 2010

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Rhoda Harvey said:

my dad was a lobsterman been gone ten years. what a nice way to say goodbye[phil] i no how the boys feel.Fisherm are a proud people
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August 30, 2010

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Rob said:

I have just discovered that Phil had passed on. I watched him and the rest of the Deadliest Catch crews with real verve. I don’t think I have missed an episode. I am deeplyu saddened, he was my favourite. Harris boys you were blessed to have dad like him. RIP Phil