Philip Harry “Duke” Mead, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher, and activist left this world peacefully on 2 October 2025, surrounded by family at 80 years old. He is survived by his wife, Joanna, siblings Kris and Brad of Arizona, children Steven, Laura, Aimee, and Abe, and their respective spouses and children.

Phil was born on 22 March 1945 in Minneapolis, MN to parents Harry and Esther Mead. An educator who worked for more than 25 years in Saint Paul Public Schools, Phil was a voracious reader and an avid sports fan. Due to his love of watching the news and reading the newspaper daily, he was always up on current events. He was known for his love of sarcasm and an extensive sneaker and jersey collection. That mischievous smile of his will always be remembered by those that knew him best.

A funeral service to celebrate Phil will be held at St Stephen’s Lutheran Church located at 1575 Carlton Street, West Saint Paul, MN 55118 on 17 October 2025. Visitation at 10am, service at 11am, with food and fellowship following the service. Family and friends are invited to attend to celebrate his life and share joyful remembrances.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Phil’s memory to the ACLU or the Equal Justice Institute, as the cause of civil rights was one close to his heart.