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BORN
1984
DIED
2026
Phillip Witte Obituary
Phillip was born on April 4, 1984, in Springfield, Illinois, and spent the vast majority of his childhood and adult life in Tucson-a place he always considered home. There, he was surrounded by close family, an extensive community of friends and support, old pueblo character, and landscapes that allowed him to enjoy many of his favorite outdoor activities.
Phillip felt a strong calling to serve others and found deep purpose in providing care to underserved communities. After completing his degree in nursing, he dedicated his work to caring for Native American communities in White River, Arizona, and Gallup, New Mexico.
Known for his empathy and steady presence, Phil had a rare ability to bring calm to even the most chaotic clinical settings. He later went on to pursue and complete his doctorate at the University of Arizona's Nurse Anesthesiology Program, where, according to faculty, he made a lasting impact from his first day. He was known for bringing his class together with a smile, a hug, or a listening ear when it was needed most.
Phil will be remembered by all who knew him for his humor, empathy, curiosity, and his ability to foster deep connection and community wherever he went, across all walks of life.
Phillip is survived by his beloved partner, Victoria Johnstone of Tucson; his mother and stepfather, Patty and Lew Hamburger of Tucson; his father, Michael Witte of Park City; his sister, Carrie (Nick) Barker of San Diego; and his nephew, Mac Morris Barker, of San Diego, and his grandmother, Charlene Kaufmann of Jacksonville, IL. Phillip was also deeply loved by his step-siblings Debbie (Howie) Sniderman of Edmonton, Alberta; Andy Hamburger of Silver Spring, Maryland; and Gail (Don) Courtnage of St. Mary's, Ontario, along with their children whom Phil spoke of often and highly.
Phillip also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, lifelong friends, and colleagues with whom he created endless memories throughout his life-from shenanigans in rural Illinois to adventures on the ski slopes of Utah and New Mexico.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Philip's Episcopal Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Arizona Nurse Anesthesiology Foundation in 'Memory of Dr. Phillip Witte': give.uafoundation.org/crna.
Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Witte
Haley Thun
February 2, 2026
Phil and I worked together in the ICU at Gallup Indian Medical Center during the COVID pandemic. He was an incredibly competent and compassionate healer for our patients during that time, as well as a lovely friend and colleague. I am deeply saddened by this loss, and I will miss him.
Mary Wylie
January 31, 2026
Phil came to visit us in Dallas, we all loved him from the minute he showed up. He brought love and so much support to all the nurses trying to achieve their doctorate. We loved Phil, and take comfort in knowing that his memory will live on in the hearts of so many.
Garret Abeyta
January 31, 2026
I think I hired Phil for his first job when he was about 16 years old after maybe his sophmore or junior year in high school. We were painting the exterior of a apartment complex. Wade, Wes, Dan and TJ. I remember Phil in his white over sized shorts, extra large white t-shirt and cap turned backwards. He looked 21 with those big shoulders and frame. He was a natural leader, hard worker, responsible and could be a person to be counted on with the summer help. But.....he was hilarious beyond his years. He made the day better. Quick witted, quick comebacks and " just being Phil" with his way around the guys/crews/my dad make me always smile when I think about Phil. On job sites there are different groups that bond together, eat together, etc. Phil bonded with everyone.
I saw him recently working out at La Paloma and we shared funny stories of that summer and just laughed. For me, that is Phil, A great guy that was amazing to be around and just made your day better. Blessings to his family and his amazing friend group he always talked about.
Tonya Craig
January 29, 2026
You were here when on the worst day of my life, the day my mom passed you were a strong hug and a calming presence.
You were here when we needed help the most, Covid hit the Navajo Nation and you gave your whole heart to our people.
You cared for our grandmas and grandpas with patience, dignity, and deep compassion, and you treated your coworkers like family.
Your loving soul, steady hands, and kind spirit made a difference that will never be forgotten.
You will always be remembered and deeply missed.
Hágoónee´, shi buddy Philbert!
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Vonda Jones
January 28, 2026
Vonda Jones
January 28, 2026
I was saddened by the News that Phil had gained his wings. My deepest Condolences to you all . I worked with Phil at GIMC he was an exceptional Nurse with such compassion for his patients and coworkers. He will be missed. He was a Good Man.
Jenni morrison
January 28, 2026
Quite simply, Phillip was one of " the good ones".
Sadly, I believe he was too good for this world. I know all of us were better for having known him. Makes me smile when I remember his beautiful blue eyes bright red from swim team.
I´m confident he is happy and his blessings on us will continue. No doubt Mike has his arms around him. Love Jenni Morrison
Mary Jane Curran
January 27, 2026
I was so sorry to hear of Phil´s death. He and Carrie were always such fun bright lights at Camp Mishawaka. May he find peace and his family find comfort.
Billy Harris
January 26, 2026
I had many conversations with Phil as both his friend and mentor. We often sat in the anesthesia office and talked about the role of compassion in nursing and how vulnerability is not weakness but evidence of strength. He understood that pursuing anesthesia is not simply a career decision but the disciplined pursuit of a calling. His time in my life was brief, yet meaningful. His life left lasting effects on those around him. The world feels darker without him, and until we meet again, I will carry with me the privilege of having known him.
Andy Pecore
January 26, 2026
Phil was an awesome person. I had the privilege of getting to know him and help encourage him to continue on to CRNA school. He was a bright mind and had a loving heart. The world was better for having him in it.
Martha Lopez
January 26, 2026
Dear Patti & Carrie,
I am heartbroken. He was always the light in the room. He made us all laugh and made our day better for being with him. Thirty years after we left Tucson and some of our best memories were with Phil. We loved him. The Lopez
Anna
January 26, 2026
My best work memories involve him, he loved Whiteriver. He taught me to ski in Telluride, the most patient man alive. He had a way of being both incredibly funny and incredibly caring all at once.
Stasy
January 26, 2026
You will be truly missed. Rest easy friend.
Michael Ippel
January 26, 2026
A hike that we did in 2020 as we took a break from caring for Covid patients.
Michael Ippel
January 26, 2026
I worked with Phil in the ICU during COVID. Phil was smart, compassionate, and just a great nurse. He made the people around him better including me. It was a joy getting to know Phil and he will be missed!
Ona Fralinger
January 25, 2026
I worked with Phil in the ICU during Covid. Phil was always kind and a strong advocate for our patients. He was one of the first nurses that facilitated family visitation in the hospital during Covid once it was allowed. I will always remember his compassion for patients and the support he provided all of us during that difficult time. He will be missed.
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