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Philip GUTZWILER Obituary
Medical Lake - Born on September 16, 1951, in Wenatchee, Washington, Philip developed a lifelong connection to the land and agriculture. He spent much of his life farming in Malaga, Washington, growing apples, cherries, and pears. His dedication to farming extended beyond his own orchards through his work with Tree Top and Excel Fruit, where he loved taking care of fellow growers and contributed to the agricultural community.
From 1969 to 1973, Philip served honorably as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force.
Faith was a guiding force throughout Philip's life. As a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, he found meaning in exploring his beliefs and deepening his spiritual journey.
Philip is remembered as a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; his sons, Josh with his wife Kimberly, and Aaron with his wife Jess; and his cherished grandchildren, Grace and Emma. Time spent with family brought him immense joy-especially moments shared with his grandchildren, whom he delighted in supporting and spoiling.
An avid outdoorsman, Philip enjoyed hunting trips with Josh and fishing outings with Aaron. In recent years, he took great satisfaction in cutting wood-a simple activity that reflected both his love for nature and his enduring work ethic.
Philip's legacy is one of steadfast dedication-to his family, to farming, to his faith, and to the values he lived by each day. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
Rosary Prayer Service will begin Monday, March 31, at 9:30am, with Funeral Mass to follow at 10am, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 428 W. 19th Ave., Spokane, WA 99203.
Burial will take place Monday, March 31, at 12:30pm, in Washington State Veterans Cemetery, 21702 W. Espanola Rd., Medical Lake, WA 99022.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Medical Lake Food Bank and mail checks to Darlene at 14717 S. Clear Lake Rd., Medical Lake, WA 99022. Phil volunteered there every Thursday and would love to help those in need in the community. Thank you!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Philip GUTZWILER
Terri worl
September 10, 2025
We miss you and your awesome personality at the food bank. We know your birthday is coming up and we just wanted to wish you a heavenly birthday. I'm sending a song to you i hope you can hear it. Its called "Dancing in the Sky" by Dani and Lizzy.
Tyler Crockett
April 20, 2025
Phil taught me a great work ethic and was like second father to me. I just found out tonight that he had past and I am heartbroken for his family he was a great man and teacher of good values.
Terri worl
March 31, 2025
My deepest condolences. Phil was a great man. He volunteered at the food bank. Such a big help and a very funny man. I really enjoyed having him around. He will be dearly missed. He loved people and enjoyed helping.
Wade and Wende Ellis
March 31, 2025
Phil will always be remembered by us for his positivity, kind-hearted nature, infectious smile and willingness to help everyone in the neighborhood and elsewhere. Sometimes he would visit with his son's, sometimes with his granddaughters and the love he has for them is visibly evident. We will miss Phil. The world was a better place because he was in it. Our deepest condolences to his family and close friends.
Randy Lambert
March 28, 2025
Always happy and always fun, I´m going to miss you Phil.
Ryan Gutzwiler
March 28, 2025
I am saddened by the sudden loss of Uncle Phil, my prayers go out to him, Aunt Darlene, Josh and Aaron.
Since hearing the news the Rolodex of memories have been suddenly flooding open.
My earliest recollection must of been around 1981 or so, a road trip to exotic Federal Way to visit Uncle Phil and Aunt Darlene in their white house, managing the overgrown black berry bushes with goats.
The 1980´s were filled with cousin sleep overs, backpacking trips to Shaffer Lake, Lake Wenatchee cabin trips, "working" in the orchard, opening weekend of fishing season at Lake Conconully.
Youth football in the fall, YMCA wrestling in the winter, and Wenatchee Youth Baseball in the spring.
Uncle Phil was always there on every trip, and around to teach us a thing or two.
Of course time passes, we grow, we move, we lose touch, not on purpose it just happens life gets busy.
But last year I was fortunate to bump into Uncle Phil, for what turned out to be the last time. He was as warm, funny, and as kind hearted as I remembered. It was if time hadn´t passed at all. Made me feel comfortable, like I was a 12 year old kid again, only this time I got all his jokes!
Rest in Peace Uncle Phil
-Ryan
Mike & Pam Sachs
March 27, 2025
We are so heart broken for all of you.
Phil was such a good man, husband, father and grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
God Bless You All
Jackie Andruss
March 27, 2025
So sorry for your loss. Phil was a good man. May God comfort you in his time of sorrow.
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