We are pleased to honor Phil Means this month!  Phil is a native Eugenean, who attended Willamette High School and graduated in 1973.  He left Eugene to attend the University of Chicago, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in

Geophysical Sciences.

     Phil lived and worked in Chicago until 1996, when he returned to Eugene to work at Sacred Heart Medical Center as a systems administrator in their IT department.  He runs a computer system that serves six hospitals and dozens of clinics spread across Oregon,  Washington, and Alaska.

     Phil met Sharon Trigg while they were both students at the University of Chicago.  They both later worked for the University and were married in 1985.  Their son Ian was born in 1994.

     When Phil and his family returned to Eugene from Chicago, they began attending Trinity with Phil’s parents, Leland and Janet Means.  They became members on October 27, 1996.

     At the time, Lloyd Yoder was running the church sound   system.  He persuaded Phil to substitute for him.  After Phil had filled in for Lloyd a few times, Lloyd stepped down, saying that Phil’s hearing was better!  Phil has been doing the sound ever since.  He considers it a form of community service and enjoys having such an important responsibility during the service.

     Phil especially likes the sense of church community at Trinity.  He wishes he had more time to attend social functions.  He goes to Tapeworms when he is able and to the Men’s Breakfast when he doesn’t have to take Ian to school.  He also loves the music program - says it’s like attending a free weekly concert!  He says, “Greg, Jim, and the choir are simply wonderful.”

     Phil’s favorite time of year at Trinity is Advent.  He loves   seeing the Sanctuary lit up and decorated for the season.

     In his spare time, Phil enjoys wine, music, and gourmet   cooking.  He makes his own mead, mostly for friends, and used to brew his own beer.  Phil has served on the Board of Directors for the Science Factory since 2001 and has been on the Board at the Eugene Village School since 2005.

     We are so thankful that Phil found his church home with us  at Trinity!