Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Daniel Philips Obituary
He is survived by his parents; his siblings, Andra and Brady; and many friends and loved ones.
Music was an integral part of Daniel's life, and he embraced it with every facet of his being. He loved to sing, play piano and trumpet, and attempted to dance with his two left feet! He was involved in countless musical theater productions over the course of his life with RBCPC, CYT, and Poway High School. His infectious laugh and zest for life followed him everywhere, often accompanied by a harmonized chorus.
After graduating from Poway High in 2002, he attended Biola University, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and most recently graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 2013, finally focusing on his passion of the culinary arts. He was finally able to awe with his culinary skills and his gift of gab.
His family invites you to celebrate his life on Saturday, June 21, 2014, at 10:30 am at the Palisades Presbyterian Church, 6301 Birchwood St., San Diego, CA 92120. We will be creating a memory book of life and laughter with friends that he impacted on his journey. Daniel will be laid to rest with a smile and song in his heart in the memorial garden at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Poway High School Die Lieders choir, which had such an immense impact on his life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Philips
Divona Roy, English Teacher
June 27, 2025
Of all my students, Danny was one of the most joyful. He kept in touch after such a fun freshman year and was proud to let me know that Andra was his sister. Danny shared good times and tough times after leaving Poway High, but he always made sure to make me laugh and smile (and whenever I think of him, like today, I smile again). I enjoyed Danny´s contagiously uplifting presence and wish he were still here to bless his family.
Nancy Engstrom
June 11, 2019
Thinking about you-/ sweet family memories to help on this day
Carol Stafford
June 11, 2019
I was just thinking about Danny the other day as a FB post was going around about CYT. That is where I first met Danny and then started going to his church a bit later. He was so kind to both my girls. And a good friend to us all...he is missed.
Tim Jacobs
July 18, 2015
To the entire Philips family-
I know how much Dan appreciated his family and friends. I am deeply sorry for your loss. As for friendship, it has been years since we spoke, but i know he always was the type of friend who we could pick up where we left off.
Once more my sympathy to the entire Philip family and if there is anything I can do let me know.
Tim Jacobs
Siblings circa 2009
Andra Philips Allcorn
July 15, 2014
Our last family photo together
Andra Philips Allcorn
July 15, 2014
Family
July 15, 2014
Danny, Aunt Deb, and Andra
July 15, 2014
Chirstmas Mess
July 15, 2014
Family in Colorado
July 15, 2014
5th Grade Colonial Days
July 15, 2014
Musical Fun
July 15, 2014
Easter Egg Hunts in Poway
July 15, 2014
Liz and Rob Bryson
July 3, 2014
Marilyn, Doug,Andra,and Brady, Liz and I are so sorry for your loss. We cannot know your grief but all our prayers go out to you. god Bless. Fondly, Liz and Rob from Gyminny Kids.
Joni Gilbert, Jeffrey & Alex
July 1, 2014
Doug, Marilyn, Brady & Andra...I just learned of Danny's passing. My heart and prayers are with you. We have great memories of your loving,fun family. I am sure that Danny is singing with the angels...and to comfort you.
Noreen Walton
June 29, 2014
Generous, caring and always joyful! Danny's spirit will continue to make Poway High School a better, kinder place - just as he did when he was a student there.
June 27, 2014
I remember Danny as an adorable little boy, full of energy and a wonderful zest for life. He was a shining star as he performed in the RBCPC musicals. He was always friendly, could talk easily with any age group. My heart goes out to the entire family. This is a tragic loss. Clara Kaku
Nancy Engstrom
June 27, 2014
Dear Marilyn and Doug.. I'm so sad for you all . I know that the love that you have given to your dear children will hold you tightly as you cherish Danny and his life .
Neill Kovrig
June 26, 2014
I am so very saddened to hear of Danny's passing - I had the honor of singing with him at RBCPC many years ago, and was always a fan of his joyful personality and an admirer of his good humor and friendliness to those around him. May he rest in peace eternal, and may his voice be one with the Heavenly Host.
June 25, 2014
Marilyn, Doug and family we are so sorry to hear of Danny's passing. Our hearts are aching for you. Danny loved life, was kind and always had a smile for everyone. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs to all. The Ericskons' Gayle, Geneo, Christina and Craig.
Suzie Durfey
June 22, 2014
I was so shocked to hear the news about Danny. I have fond memories of him, starting when he and Shelly were in kindergarten together, to how he always had a group of girls giggling around him at church, and what a beautiful singing voice he had. It was a blessing to have known him. My deepest condolences go out to your family.
Jonathan, Joyce, Dylan, Evan and Natalie Smith
June 21, 2014
Doug and Marilyn:
Our words cannot express the sadness that we feel for you and your family for the loss of Daniel.
Winter Ball
Carrie Miller
June 19, 2014
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I most definitely know this to be true of my friend Danny. I can't really remember all of the funny things he said but I do know that he always made me laugh! He had such a fun and joyful spirit and I loved being his friend. I stayed in touch with Danny over the years after high school and whenever he called or someone mentioned his name, I always had a huge smile on my face because to me Danny is synonymous with fun and joy. I loved my friend Danny and I will miss him.
-Carrie Miller
June 18, 2014
I will always remember Daniel singing, from elementary school talent shows to seeing his shows in high school. Sending our prayers to his family for their loss. May they find peace and comfort. The Butler Family
Jim & Diddo Clem
June 18, 2014
Doug-Marilyn So sorry to hear about the loss of your son Daniel. Our thoughts and prayers are with you an your family.
Jim & Diddo Clem
June 18, 2014
Danny always had a kind word for everyone. We enjoyed his talents at church and school. He was Sarah's "Big Brother" and protector in the Emerald Brigade trumpet section....we always loved him for that! May he find comfort in the arms of his Savior and to all his family, know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Blessings to you all. The Kimberly Family
Deb & Jim Buzan
June 18, 2014
We've known him since he was born. He honored us by adopting us as his Aunt & Uncle and we loved him like he was our own son. We will miss him more than words can describe.
June 18, 2014
I loved Danny for his kind heart and gentle spirit. He always made me laugh and was so sweet to both my daughters in the CYT play A Little Princess. He became a forever friend to us through church and school. Prayers for and love to his family. Carol, John, Jessie & Becca(Roberts) Stafford
Pam Higgins
June 18, 2014
I remember Dan as a young man of great character and integrity. God gave him a big heart with a warm smile and kind, uplifting spirit that he voiced genuinely to others. Even as a young man, I believe that his faith in God and in the goodness of others gave him a refreshing zest for life. I have thought of him often since our days together at Poway High School, and I will continue to do so. I wish you, as family members, fond memories that will keep his spirit alive with you until you see him again.
Sincerely, Pam Higgins, former PHS counselor and friend
Kristen Butler
June 18, 2014
I remember play dates as a kid with Dan's sister Andra at the Philips house and playing twister with Dan and Andra. He had such a fun, loving, playful spirit. He will be missed! My love and prayers are with you Philips family!
Showing 1 - 32 of 32 results
Make a Donation
in Daniel Philips's name
Memorial Events
for Daniel Philips
How to support Daniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Daniel Philips's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
