Philip Koan

Philip Goodhart Koan passed peacefully into heaven surrounded by loved ones, on September 7, 2024, at his home on the Satilla River in Woodbine Ga., He was born on April 30, 1936 in Owosso, Michigan, to the late George Harwood Koan and B. Oveta Goodhart Koan. He was the sixth of eight beloved brothers and sisters. Philip is survived by his wife of 45 years, Gayle James Koan, 2 daughters and their husbands, Holly and Jim Proctor, Madena and Cliff Dixon, three granddaughters, Katie Dixon, Clare Proctor, and Ansley Proctor, and many adored nieces and nephews.

He attended high school at Holly High in Michigan where he was captain of the swim team and played the trumpet in the school band. Philip also attended The Missouri Military Academy and spent two years in the army.

Philip was the owner of Koan Septic and Koan Mini Storage on 15A in DeLand. His sign with encouraging thoughts and anecdotes became a favorite landmark for many who traveled 15A.

After taking over the septic business in the early sixties, he developed a new way of manufacturing septic tanks and installed them all over Central Florida, including some 90% of Deltona homes at the time. Philip also served a term as President of the Florida Septic Tank Association.

During his time as a business owner in the DeLand community Philip ran Jartran and Ryder Truck rentals, Koan Materials Company, and was co-owner of AOK Trailers.

Philip was a member of the DeLand Rotary Club, the Beresford Yacht Club, and the DeLand Country Club where he was an avid golfer. He enjoyed traveling and loved flying. Philip spent many years piloting his own planes, flying himself and friends to various destinations.

He sold his business in 2020 to begin retirement. In 2023 he and Gayle moved to Woodbine to be close to family.

Philip was a devoted member of Stetson Baptist church where he was a Deacon, Trustee, choir member, usher, and Sunday School Teacher. His many years of dedication and generous contributions helped make Stetson Baptist the wonderful place of worship it is today.

Above all, Philip lived his life in service of God and showed all those around him the love and mercy of our Father in Heaven through his words and actions. He loved his family and friends and was always there for anyone who needed a helping hand.

The family requests that, in leu of flowers, donations be made to the children’s hospital of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at Stetson Baptist Church on Thursday, September 19th at 11:00 AM. There will be a Celebration of Life in the Fellowship Hall following the service.

Lankford Funeral Home will be handling a private interment.