[1][2] He was educated in the public schools of the city, and joined the family florist business, John Breitmeyer & Sons.

The couple had three children, Philip Jr, Harry G. and Katherine.

[1][2] Breitmeyer was appointed by George P. Codd as Commissioner of Parks and Boulevards for the city of Detroit,[1] a position he held for two years.

[2] So well did he perform that he was nominated as the Republican candidate for mayor, and was elected for a term in 1909-1910.

[1] Breitmeyer ran again for mayor in 1933, but was soundly defeated by James Couzens's son Frank.