A Cherished Member of the Abbewood Community: Remembering Philip A. Daigle

A Cherished Member of the Abbewood Community: Remembering Philip A. Daigle

(from his obituary)

The Abbewood Community mourns the loss of one of its dearest members, Philip A. Daigle, who passed away peacefully on November 29 in East Longmeadow, MA, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Ann C. Daigle of Enfield, CT, Phil’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit touched countless lives and left an imprint that will long be remembered.

Born on June 10, 1942, in Springfield, MA, Phil was the son of the late Mae (Bousquet) and William F. Daigle. Guided by a strong work ethic and natural curiosity, he built a lifelong career as a Sales Engineer in the combustion field, dedicating 46 years to his profession before retiring from North American Mfg. Company in 2007. Yet, those who knew him understood that Phil’s true impact extended far beyond his career.

Phil was a man who embraced life with a learner’s heart. Inspired after hearing Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, he developed a deep love for classical music and even learned to play the violin—an instrument he approached with both discipline and delight. He wrote short stories and poems, always searching for the perfect words, and he possessed a special talent for corny puns that never failed to bring a smile.

Golf was one of Phil’s great joys, especially the rounds played with his best friend, Bob Ellis. He read widely, always eager to learn something new, and his thoughtful nature, steady guidance, and gentle humor made him a cherished presence in every room.

Phil’s greatest pride, however, was his family. He leaves behind three devoted children: Cheryl and her husband Peter Suits of Shrewsbury, MA; Lori Broderick and her partner Scott Flynn of Flagler Beach, FL; and Philip and his wife Michele Daigle of Rutland, MA. As “Gramps,” he adored his grandchildren—Connor and his wife Melissa Daigle, Madison Daigle, Erin and Kathryn Broderick, and Adam and his wife Laura Suits—and his heart expanded even further with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Noah Daigle and Elliana Suits.

He also lovingly embraced Ann’s children as part of his life: Kristin Johnson and her fiancé Bill Fredrick of Suffield, CT, and Karalyn and her husband Matt Squiers of East Windsor, CT.

Phil is survived by his dear brother Richard and his wife Irena Kipa-Daigle of East Hampton, CT, with whom he and Ann shared a special, lasting bond. He is also remembered fondly by his former wife and friend, Ann Daigle of Shrewsbury, MA; by many nieces, nephews, and extended family; and by numerous friends who treasured his companionship. He was predeceased by his brothers William (1944) and Robert (1986).

Phil’s life was one marked by kindness, curiosity, humor, and love—qualities that enriched his family, friends, and the Abbewood Community. He leaves behind memories filled with laughter, wisdom, music, and stories that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew him.

To borrow the words of poet W. H. Auden, shared lovingly by his wife Annie:

“He was my North, my South, my East and my West, my working week and my Sunday rest, my moon, my midnight, my talk and my song—

My best friend, my dear Phil.”

Phil Daigle will be profoundly missed, but forever remembered with gratitude and love.