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Phillip Guiffrida Jr., 73

| February 28, 2025 12:00 AM

Phillip "Phil" Guiffrida Jr., 73, was welcomed into heaven on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by many.

Born on May 1, 1951, in Jamestown, New York, to Phillip Guiffrida Sr. and Linda Detonto-Guiffrida, Phil spent his early years there before his family relocated to Southern California. During junior high, he met Jerri Roen, who would later become his high school sweetheart. Their love story led to marriage on Sept. 23, 1972.

In the mid-1980s, seeking a quieter life away from the city, Phil and Jerri decided to move. Jerri longed to return to Montana, where she had spent her childhood, and without hesitation, Phil made it happen. They packed up their two young children and settled in Kalispell, embracing a new chapter together.

Throughout his career, Phil worked as a machinist, dedicating much of his time to Semitool and Applied Materials. After losing his beloved Jerri to cancer in 2018, he found solace in the great outdoors, indulging his passion for hunting and fishing. Some of his happiest moments were spent on the water, fishing with his grandsons.

Phil was preceded in death by his wife, Jerri Guiffrida, his parents, Phillip Guiffrida Sr. and Linda Slemmons, as well as his sisters, Diana Aldaco and Phyllis Guiffrida. 

He is survived by his son, Joseph and daughter-in-law, Mara Guiffrida of Somers, his son, Phillip (III) and daughter-in-law, Michelle Guiffrida of Kalispell, along with their sons Logan and Wyatt. He is also remembered by his sister, Linda Medina, brother, Danny Guiffrida, and many loving nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Phil’s life will be held this summer, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory.