Philip M. Racina

We are heartbroken to share the passing of Philip M. Racina Jr, age 68, on June 18, 2025. He was surrounded in the hospital by loved ones.

Phil was born on May 7, 1957 to Philip Sr. and Marie (Tufano). Growing up in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, Phil was a multi-sport athlete at Gordon Tech High School and a Teenage National Champion with the Windy City Power Lifting Club. He was an employee at the neighborhood grocery store Fenger’s and clothing store Apple before starting his career on the railroad with Chicago North Western/Union Pacific. He worked his way up from coach cleaner to Director of Commuter Operations.

Survived by wife of 15 years Barbara Hald, his children Casey (Derrik) Dawson, Kyle, and Jake (Chloe), stepdaughter Porsche Winfield, and his favorite and hairiest child of all, Violet. He was also the proud Papa of Colton, Payton, and Hauxton Dawson, as well as brother to Phyllis (Bill) Hoth and Nancy (the late Ray) Landin and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Phil shared many years with his first wife Janet, raising their children. He passed down many of his passions to his kids, including cycling, cars, music, and hockey. Phil coached many of their teams and was an active supporter of their endeavors. He followed his own passions throughout life. When given a second chance at life after a heart attack in 2012, Phil retired from the railroad and ventured across the country on a 72 day off-roading expedition in his FJ Cruiser with his dog Violet by his side. 

Phil had an ever-expanding circle of friends that he accumulated from car and motorcycle groups, as well as the staff and patrons of local Oak Park diner Al’s Grill, where he and Bobbie became cherished regulars. His infectious laugh and quick wit made him an unforgettable character that was a pleasure to be around. In his alone time Phil enjoyed listening to music and meticulously improving his stereo system while enjoying a glass of bourbon from his impressive collection.

Phil’s generosity and kindness will forever be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 28 at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home from 11:30-2:30 with a memorial service beginning at 1:30pm Visitors are welcome to make their way to Robert’s Westside located next door until 5:30pm for a celebration of Phil’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the American Heart Association in Phil’s honor.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Philip M. Racina, please visit our floral store.