Phil was raised in the northern Michigan area from childhood, when his parents moved from the suburban Detroit area and made Petoskey their home.  Upon completion of studies at Petoskey High School, he went on to graduate from North Central Michigan College, where he met Annie, his wife of over 35 years.  

When Phil spent time after college in North Carolina on a project, it was this experience with residential development that introduced him to ideas he brought back locally in creating his business, Phil Duran Building and Development.  "Economically, that was the first reason I was here - being young and looking to implement new business ideas." he reflected.  He subsequently developed several area subdivisions, including Country Club Hills and Grand Ridge of Petoskey.  The second reason came when he and Ann began to grow deeper family roots.  The couple has six children, ranging from 20 to 34 years old, with three now married, and seven grandchildren. Activities and interests that are important to their lives are found here - church family, coaching baseball, playing hockey, land for outdoor recreation - close to their residence outside Petoskey.

"You really don't have to sacrifice a whole lot to live here." he said.  Reflecting back on travels to other destination locations, Phil noted that this area is where he chooses to be for the long term.  "I appreciate not being just one of a multitude in large urban community.  It's a privilege to be able to get to know others personally throughout the neighboring towns, to develop intimate working relationships that you may not get in a larger city." he said.  "It's been a great place to work, pleasant place for recreation, safe place for our family, and a close-knit community looking out for their families and children."