Philip L Rhynalds

A private family inurnment with Military and Masonic Honors will be held at a later date at the Oxford Cemetery in Oxford, Nebraska. At Phil's request, a celebration of life will be held at a later date so that all the folks who were on the receiving end of Phil's fun-loving practical jokes and mischievous antics may have the opportunity to "get in the last word." Any and all stories, jokes and tall takes will be welcome.

Philip Lee Rhynalds, 90 years of age, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Tri-Valley Health in Cambridge, Nebraska.  Phil, born on April 5, 1935, in Oxford, Nebraska, was the eldest of three children born to Neal and Luceil (Bose) Rhynalds.  He received his education from Oxford Public Schools and graduated with the class of 1954.

Phil enlisted into the United States Air Force on October 7, 1957. Following basic training at Lachland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, he was stationed at Truax Air Force Base in Madison, Wisconsin as a flight mechanic for 3 years. He achieved the rank of Airman 1st Class. Following his honorable discharge on June 9, 1961, he met his future wife, Sharon.

On February 3, 1962, Phil was united in marriage to Sharon L. Waughtal in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. After the wedding, they returned to the home farm in rural Oxford where Phil joined his father and brother in farming. This union was blessed with two daughters: Leigh and Lisa.

In addition to 45+ years as an active farmer, Phil and Sharon owned two businesses in Oxford. They owned and operated the R&F Department Store from 1968 to 1972. In 1974, they purchased the H&R Block income tax business and prepared taxes for 40 years.

Phil was a Master Mason and an active member for 68 plus years of the Rawalt Lodge #138 in Oxford and then the Jachin Lodge #146 in Holdrege. He was awarded the Bronze Jordan Medal from Jachin Lodge in February of 2019. This medal is awarded to the member with the most years of active membership.

Phil enjoyed riding his Harley. He and Sharon rode more than 100,000 miles around the central United States. He was also skilled at clock repair. This was a hobby he learned from his favorite Uncle Jack.

He leaves to celebrate his life; two daughters: Leigh Rhynalds and her friend, Bill Prange of Fort Collins, Colorado and Lisa Rhynalds and her friend, Carl Kramer of Oxford; brother, Neal Rhynalds and wife, Susan of Oxford; sister, Susan Stuckert of Bradenton, Florida; one sister-in-law, Pat Anderson of Black River Falls, Wisconsin; two brothers-in-law: Charles Waughtal and William Waughtal, both of Black River Falls; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Phil was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon; his parents; brother-in-law, Glenn Anderson; and two sisters-in-law: Ruane Waughtal; and Margie Waughtal.

There will be no visitation, viewing, or memorial book signing.

As he wanted to help further the educational opportunities for doctors, his body was donated to the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

A memorial has been established in Phil's honor, and kindly suggested to the Oxford Area Veteran's Memorial or the Museum of Oxford.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Mitchell-Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Oxford is in charge of the arrangements.