Phillip Burton Skinner, age 73, passed away peacefully in Helena, Montana, on June 16, 2024. He was a beloved father, brother and friend to many. He was born March 13, 1951 to Maurice (Mo) Skinner and Evelyn Durling Skinner in Ross, New York. He was raised in Salinas, California, and graduated from North Salina High School in 1969, where he was active in cross country and played the trumpet for the school band.

While traveling through Montana on vacation in the mid 70s, Phil fell in love with the mountains and made the decision to stay and make Helena his home. He was a talented customer service representative for the auto industry. Phil married Amy Quam in 1990 (divorced in 1999). They had three children: Joshua Skinner of Helena, Karlissa Skinner of Missoula and Jordin Skinner of Bozeman.

Phil instilled in his children a profound love for cooking and music. His kitchen was a place of joy and creativity, where meals were prepared with love and shared with family and friends. Music was always prevalent, whether it was on the radio or him singing in the grocery store, it was a big part of who he was, and it reflected his ability to enjoy the smaller things in life.

Phil patiently taught each of his kids to drive, often letting them sit on his lap as they navigated the family car, a testament to his trust and the close bond he shared with them. Family adventures to Silverwood Waterpark were among Phil's favorite memories, where their shared love of the water was crucial in creating everlasting memories.

Phil's friends knew him as a sociable and charming individual, someone who could light up any room with his presence. His life was a testament to his passions and the joy he brought to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. A special thanks to Tom Curtis, whose steadfast friendship and support meant the world to him, especially in his final days.

Phil is survived by his three children, daughter in-law Charlotte Skinner, grandchildren Molly and Anna Skinner and Damian (Skinner) Fisher and sister Karen (Skinner) Conrad and brother-in-law Michael Conrad II of Nashville, TN and many nieces and nephews. Phil is preceded in death by his father Maurice, mother Evelyn, brother David and sister Bonnie VanderWerf of California.

Phil laughed easily and knew how to enjoy life, teaching all who knew him the value of living in the moment and savoring the simple pleasures. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. A memorial service, followed by a celebration of life, will be held in his honor at Grizzly Gardens in Helena at 1:00pm, Saturday August 3, 2024.