Phillip D. Vinnedge

US Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Phillip D Vinnedge died the way he lived, serving others. He was born February 22, 1991 in Spokane, Washington and died October 13, 2010 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was 19 years old. Phillip wanted to join the military since 9/11 and in September of 2009 his dream was fulfilled when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was a Marine, a Boy Scout, an Order of the Arrow member, a wrestler, a skydiver, a welder, a member of a trap shooting club, a brother, a friend, and a son. He graduated from Francis Howell Central in 2009 while also attending Lewis & Clark Technical School for two years. Phillip loved life, and he loved challenges. From simple childhood bets and dares, to personal goals and accomplishments, Phillip never backed down from a challenge. Despite his determination and frequent success, Phillip never sought accolades or recognition for his accomplishments, instead being content with reaching his own personal goals. Phillip leaves behind his parents, Dave and Julie Vinnedge, his brothers Corey and Jason, his sister-in-law Rebekah, and his grandfather Roy Southern as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Among his many friends, he leaves behind his elementary school friends Zach Will and Brennan Weems and his girlfriend Shelby Bradshaw. We also remember those who have gone before him, especially his grandparents Chester James Vinnedge (1984), Eva Day Vinnedge (1999), and Eleanor Stockton Southern (2001). Service: Family and Friends will be able to join in a Celebration of Life Service for Phillip on Thursday, October 21, 2010, at 10:00 AM, at Church of the Shepherd, 1601 Woodstone Drive, St. Charles, Missouri 63304. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 20, 2010, from 3:00 – 8:00 PM, at the Baue Funeral & Memorial Center, 3950 West Clay, St Charles, Missouri 63301. Burial with full military honors will follow services at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Those wishing to honor Phillips life through a donation may drop off unwrapped toys for the Marine Toys for Tots program at the church, funeral home, or Francis Howell Central High School. Memorials may also be sent in his memory to Marine Toys for Tots, c/o Baue Funeral Home 3950 West Clay, St Charles, Missouri 63301. To share memories and condolences please visit www.baue.com