On January 8th, a dear friend and local father, Phil Fleischer, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind his wife, Katie, and their two children, Lilly (11) and Archie (9). Their world changed in an instant.

To Lilly and Archie, Phil was not only the best dad but a best friend in every sense of the word. He helped with homework, loved movie nights, playing video games and cooking for them, filled their home with laughter and sang each of them a special song at bed time.

To Katie, he was a partner, a steady presence, and the person she counted on every day. Their happiness was the most important things to him.

Phil was the kind of person who showed up. Around town, he was a familiar face, always there cheering on his kids at Mansfield Youth Football and Cheer, Reflections Dance Academy, and supporting his family at countless community events. His love for his family was constant, visible, and deeply felt by those who knew them.

Now Katie is facing the unimaginable, caring for two young children while grieving the loss of her husband and trying to find a way forward. This fundraiser is meant to help ease the immediate financial strain from services to everyday needs, and to give Katie the space and support she needs to focus on her children during this incredibly difficult time.

If you knew Phil, or if you’ve crossed paths with this family in our community, we ask that you rally around them now. Any donation, no matter the amount, and any share of this page is an act of care that will help remind Katie, Lilly, and Archie that they are not alone.

Thank you for holding this family in your hearts and surrounding them with love.