Donations sought for ‘Flying Phil’ memorial statue in Parksville [Video]

An online fundraising campaign launched Tuesday for the City of Parksville to purchase a permanent memorial for beloved community member “Flying Phil.”

Phil Saint Luke, also known as Flying Phil, was an icon and well loved in the Oceanside area for the joy he brought to others through his friendly waves and giant smile.

He died on Jan. 13, 2023, at the age of 70 from cancer.

Now, a GoFundMe campaign has launched with an initial goal of $80,000 to purchase a life-size bronze statue of Flying Phil.

“Rarely has an individual evoked so much joy in the community simply from having their presence and positivity on display,” said Parksville city councillor Adam Fras in a release Tuesday.

“With a statue, that impact will be able to live on,” he said.

Phil made his presence known in the community over the last 40 years as he walked up to 35 kilometres a day giving …