Phillip Eugene McKnight, 74

Phillip Eugene McKnight, 74, passed away peacefully into the arms of his savior Jesus, Saturday, Aug. 10, after a short battle with kidney failure. He was being cared for at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula.

Phillip was born April 12, 1950, in Omak, Washington, where his parents, Richard and Bobbie McKnight-Orr, had met while working in the apple orchards of the Okanogan Valley. The family moved to Flathead Valley in the early 50’s and spent a 4-year period in El Dorado, Arkansas, where his mom Bobbie was from. Phillip grew up in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead County High School in 1970, the same year as his brother Mike.

He is survived by his sister, Deanna Sunde (Bob) and brother, Mike McKnight (Brenda) both of Kalispell; three nephews and one niece.

Phillip endured many challenges in his life and overcame every one of them with strong persistence and great patience. The last couple of decades were his best, enjoying life in Missoula, under the care of some very special, loving health caregivers, medical and mental health staff that all helped Phillip enjoy life in a group home setting. Phillip had a way of bringing out the best in people and he made many loving friends while living in Missoula. His quiet manner and humble way of life was endearing to those he was around the most. He became an avid artist, winning several local awards for his artwork — he sold several of his paintings, some which still hang in Missoula businesses. He felt that art was his legacy.

Graveside services for family and friends will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, at the Conrad Memorial Cemetery, starting at 1 p.m.