Eric Eugene Phelps of Fennville, Michigan, passed on August 10, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children. Eric was born on October 21, 1940, to his late parents Waldo and Irma (Rothenstein) Phelps in Chicago, Illinois. Eric was a hard-working man who built his own business from the ground up after achieving a bachelor's degree in Pomology (Agriculture). His business was Phelp's Orchards based in Glenn, Michigan, faithfully working the land and providing for the local and nationwide agriculture demand. Disciplined, dedicated and determined where a few of his many attributes he showed to his children and those who knew him. Eric was also known to have an extensive collection of Civil War memorabilia and loved to read and collect books for his library pertaining to that time. Known for his love for hard work and knowledge of books he would also spend the rest of his time with his family. Eric also was the Magistrate for Allegan County for many consecutive years. The family will have a private graveside at a later date for the burial of Eric's ashes.

Eric is survived by his wife Janet (Patefield) Phelps; children Nathan Phelps and Heather Phelps.

He is preceded in passing by his parents Waldo and Irma (Rothenstein) Phelps; and brother Michael Phelps.