01/30/2026
Another lifelong Vanner gained his wings this week.
Mike Phillips passed peacefully in his sleep on Monday, January 26, 2026.
Mike leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Suzy; his two daughters, Kimberly and Kristi; and five grandchildren, Londyn, Brayden, Augustus, Frank, and Lydia. All of whom have attended Truck-Ins and shared in our passion.
Mike was a cornerstone of the vanning community for decades. He served as Heart of America Van Council Chairman for many years and remained a Board of Director throughout his life. Along with JD, Mike was instrumental in ensuring clubs were incorporated and able to obtain insurance for hosted events that helped protect and preserve our gatherings for generations to come.
Mike, JD, and Suzy also founded H.I.V.E. (Heart of America Vanning Euthenists), an organization that allowed individuals to create and host events while still qualifying for insurance. Through HIVE, several unforgettable events were born.
One of those was Vanners Day at the Races, where Vanners gathered to have dinner with stock car drivers, drive their vans on the track, enjoy the races, and camp overnight. Another was the legendary Freeze Out. When Freeze Out was first revived at Shady Lake, it was so cold the heater had to face the beer keg just so it would pour! The local paper even came out to photograph the “crazy Vanners” camping in those conditions. Games were moved into the snack bar, and the fun never stopped.
When Freeze Out later moved to Eagleville, MO, Mike became famous for his bonfire built from massive tree stumps and never allowed to burn low. HIVE also launched “Take It Easy” Weekend, also in Eagleville. No games, no shows, no structure, just camping, the pool, and enjoying each other’s company. Mike and Kiwi could always be found flipping burgers, serving beer, and soaking in the fellowship.
When you add all of this together with the club events he supported, Mike was involved in hosting or supporting nearly four events every year.
Mike was a member of Vantasia Vans for 25 years and Three Trails for the last 10 years, though anyone who knew him knows he never cared much about titles, only the people.
Mike was a simple man, so in that spirit there will be a Celebration of Life held on the family property when the weather breaks. We’ll gather to share stories, laughter, a little mischief, a bonfire, and a shot in his honor. If you bring your van, you’re more than welcome to plug in and stay.
Please share your favorite memories and photos of Mike here so they can be enjoyed by the family.
