Philip M. Dwight

My parents, Herb and Marian Baker, became friends with Phils parents in Fargo. My older brothers are same ages as Phil and Ginny. I loved listening to the stories from that time. After college, in the early 70's, I worked in Owatonna. Ward and Marie treated me like another daughter. Sadly,I had lost contact over the years. So sorry for Phil's family. May he Rest In Peace.

September 15, 2016


To the family of Phil Dwight,

I am so sorry to hear that Phil has passed away. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Phil and I went to High School together in Great Falls, MT, class of 1959.

I'm sure Phil was a wonderful father, grandfather and great-grandfather. To reinforce for the younger generation their knowledge of a part of his history as an outstanding athlete and a special human being, I would like to share my experiences with Phil.

I can't say we were close friends. He may not have even remembered me, but we were on the track team together for 3 years. Phil's attitude toward those of us less talented during that time has had a profound effect on my life. I have thought about Phil quite a bit in recent years and really regret not making a concerted effort to locate him. Now it is too late. That is another lesson learned for me. Late or not, I would like to write the letter to Phil which I should have written several years ago.


Dear Phil,

You may not remember me, but I ran with you on the GFHS Track Team. You were our top runner in the mile and half mile runs. I was at the other end of the list. You would run the 4 laps for the mile in the time it took me to run 3. Many winners would not pay any attention to the rest of the field. You were different. Even though I was in last place, you would be along the edge of the track enthusiastically encouraging me on to the finish line, never quit. I can picture it clearly.

Twenty years after high school I started running (jogging?) again. When I would get tired and think about quitting, the image of you encouraging me on would keep me going. I was never great, but over the next 30+ years I was able to keep running, including a couple of marathons and many other long distance runs. It has been an important part of my life. Thank you for your encouragement all those many years ago. I wish I had written this letter earlier.

Gary


The attitude goes far beyond athletics. Encouraging and helping others makes life better for all of us. Phil was a prime example of that for me. I'm sure he would want that feeling to continue through the following generations. Feel free to share this with others. I feel it is important for children to know about their heritage.

Gary Gallaher
19 Valley Dr., Orinda, CA 94563
[email protected]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Mr. Dwight was my sociology professor at Northern in 1985-86. He was the reason I added sociology as another major! He was such a good teacher and his lectures captured my attention and interest. I am very grateful for his inspiration!

My condolences to the family during this difficult time. It is never easy to lose a loved one. Phil always had insight to share, and I'm sure he would have just the right words to say. Thinking about you . . .

My condolences to you on the passing of Phil. He was teaching at Northern Stare when I arrived to teach there in 1974. He was an excellent, knowledgeable, popular teacher. I would have students in my classes comment on his lectures, especially in his Sociology and the Family class. I was hoping he would return after finishing his PhD. I remember getting together with Phil and Jeanne in Brentford and in Mellette, SD when you lived here. Good Memories. Jerry and Malee Rosonke, Mansfield, SD

Jeanne,
We are so sorry to read the death of your husband. We are thinking of you and your family during this sad time.
Criss & Shirley Scriver