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Phil Steigerwald

A DAY OF CELEBRATION IS CURRENTLY BEING PLANNED
 

Santa Phil Steigerwald

For decades, families in Fort Wayne and surrounding counties would make the yearly trek to the Wolf & Dessauer store to visit Santa Claus.  This was not just any Santa, he was THE Santa Claus.  But let’s not get too far ahead.  Let us start at the beginning….

Philemon (Phil) Alfred Steigerwald was born October 21, 1927, in Ft. Wayne.  He grew up in Ft. Wayne and during his sophomore year in high school, he donned the red suit for the first time to portray Santa for the local Sears and Roebuck. Phil then moved

onto become Santa Claus for Wolf & Dressaur. At Christmas time, Wolf & Dressaur was known nationwide for its wonderful window

displays.  Soon, they would be known for having a Santa just as spectacular. 

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From the mid 1950’s to the late 1970’s he was Santa for 100’s of thousands who came to visit him at Wolf & Dessaur Department store.  Phil was always pleasant and welcomed his visitors with a heartfelt “Hello there!”  And when they left, a gentle reminder of “No peeking!"  It would become is signature.  He appeared at many other venues in northeast Indiana but for those who lived in Fort Wayne, he was their Santa.  

 

 

Santa Phil Steigerwald

During his time with Wolf & Dessaur,Phil had his own local television show called "Santa In Wanderland." on WKJG 33.  Children all of the area would rush home from school to see what Santa and his favorite elf, Wee Willie Wand would be up to.  Wolf & Dessaur contracted a small Southern California designer named Beatrice to make the Wee Willie Wand dolls.  (Beatrice later became the Mattel Toy Company.) These dolls were in high demand in the 40' and 50's. 

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Phil’s storied career as Santa Claus lasted over 40 years.  He passed away January 15, 2004.  Phil may be gone but his commitment to the children of Ft. Wayne will remain forever. 

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Santa Phil Steigerwald
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NEWS ARTICLES

Santa Phil Steigerwald

Friends of the Committee:

Riley Cheer Guild
Gigi's Playhouse Indianapolis
Santa Claus Museum and Village
Riley Children's Hospital
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