2/22/1947 – 01/28/2024
Lawrence
Philip (Phil) Louis Bohlander, 76, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on January 28th, 2024. Phil was born to Howard Edward Bolander and Marie Louise (Wegner) Bohlander and raised in the Chicago area. He attended the University of Kansas where he received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy in 1969. In his first job after college, Phil worked in waste collection for the City of Lawrence. During his nine years on the job, he helped to organize the formation of a union for the trash collectors and succeeded in securing higher pay and better working conditions. Phil also renovated homes before later becoming a realtor.
He volunteered for many years at Headquarters Volunteer Crisis Counseling Center where he discovered his talent in being able to connect with others. This experience led him to complete a master’s degree in social work in 1990. He was a dedicated student of therapeutic studies and his curious mind and his love for learning continued to be present in his work with clients.
Phil worked for Wyandot Behavioral Health Network for the last 33 years where he was a tireless advocate for adults, children, and families. He also was devoted to all his clients in his private practice in Kansas City, Missouri. In addition, he has provided training, mentoring, and friendship to many students and professionals within the field.
Phil is survived by his sister Betty Bohlander, brother Tim Bohlander, and former wives Laurie Culling and Debbie Sheridan, as well as many friends from the Lawrence and Kansas City areas who cherished him.
No memorial services are scheduled currently. Please honor Phil by being kind and visiting a local art gallery.
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