Philip Charles Klingsmith, II

Philip “Phil” Charles Klingsmith, III, peacefully passed away on March 22, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by his beloved wife, JoAnn, and children, Pete and Kate.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 30, 1949, Phil moved to Gunnison, CO, at the age of four. His life was marked by remarkable achievements, boundless dedication, and a deep commitment to bettering his community and loving his family. He touched the lives of many as an athlete, lawyer, educator, and community leader, all while being a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, mentor and friend.

Phil's early years were marked by his passion for sports and pursuit of excellence. A graduate of Gunnison High School, Phil attended Fort Lewis College in Durango on a ski scholarship for his undergraduate studies. He later transferred to the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he earned his bachelor's degree, and subsequently obtained his master's degree at Western State College in Gunnison. He then enrolled at California Western School of Law, where he served as the student body president. Upon graduating from Cal Western, he earned his law degree, receiving his Juris Doctor and the lasting title of Dr. Klingsmith.

In addition to his education, Phil’s passion for skiing continued throughout his life. He was the Head Ski Coach at the University of Utah, where his leadership and expertise helped develop countless student-athletes both on and off the slopes. Additionally, he brought world-class skiing events to the Gunnison Valley, including NORAM events and the US Alpine Championships—leaving a lasting legacy on the region’s skiing culture.

He served two terms on the Gunnison Watershed School District Board, advocating for quality education. His commitment to the community also extended to the Dos Rios Golf Course, where he held two terms as President of the Golf Course Board and contributed to the completion of the back nine.

Phil also sought to serve on a larger scale. He ran for U.S. Congress and Governor of Colorado, demonstrating his unwavering passion for public service despite these campaigns not resulting in victory. Regardless, his dedication to his community never wavered.

In his professional life, Phil was a defense attorney who devoted his career to serving his clients with commitment and dedication. However, his leadership and influence extended far beyond the courtroom.

Phil was an inspiring educator. For over 30 years, he taught business law at Western State College, where he also served as President of the Faculty Senate and Department Chair. His deep love for teaching and commitment to his students left a lasting mark on the university, with many of his students remembering his mentorship and guidance.

Phil was the founder and manager of the Gunnison Colts baseball team, providing young athletes with opportunities to grow both on and off the field. He was also a published author, with works that include "Gunnison Kid," "Union Park," "Humphrey Lee Bogart," and a stage play titled "The X," which was produced several times.

Phil’s journey of sobriety, which began 41 years ago, marked a transformative period in his life. It represented a new chapter in which he dedicated himself to helping others, becoming a source of strength, guidance, and support to many in need. He was also a member of the Gunnison Recovery Court in the 7th Judicial District.

Beyond his professional and community accomplishments, Phil was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife of over 40 years, JoAnn Klingsmith, their children, Pete Klingsmith and Kate Roberts, and his four cherished grandchildren, Sloane and Saylor Roberts and Kennedy and Cole Klingsmith. His siblings also survive him: Chris Klingsmith, David Klingsmith, Kirk Klingsmith, and Helen Allen.

Phil’s legacy of service, leadership, and love will continue to resonate within the Gunnison community and beyond. He leaves behind a world better for having known him, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.

His life will be celebrated on Friday, April 4th, at 1 p.m. at the Fred Field Events Center. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to Living Journeys and Gunnison Tough: the Friends of Tough Fund.

Phil, you will be greatly missed, but your impact on those who knew and loved you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.