Philip John Cordes

Phil was a devoted husband and took pride in his role as a father and grandfather. He enjoyed a long and happy marriage of more than 42 years with his wife, Francis Elaine Cordes. He was proud of his three children, whom he had with their mother, Joan, and in his later years felt especially blessed by his three grandchildren, who brought him joy.

Phil graduated in 1961 from St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in Business and an affinity for mathematics. After graduation he joined IBM at their offices in White Plains, New York for several years before accepting an assignment as Systems Analyst and Manager of Information Systems at the Mission Control Center of NASA in Houston, Texas where he was an integral part of some of our nation’s most important missions ranging from Apollo (including Apollo-Soyuz), Skylab, and several of the first Space Shuttles, receiving multiple recognitions along the way. Phil rarely spoke of his work and preferred to let it stand on its own.

Phil’s professional life reflected his sharp mind, discipline, and ability to solve complex problems. He also believed strongly in civic duty and responsibility. During his years in Texas, he served as a certified Peace Officer, reflecting his strong sense of duty and order.

Outside of work, Phil followed his interests with focus and deep engagement. He devoted significant time to stamp collecting, watch collecting and repair, and film—pursuits that shaped much of how he spent his days and traveled through the world. His stamp collecting, in particular, was a long-standing commitment; over several decades, he held numerous roles in multiple philatelic organizations and built lasting relationships within that community.

In his later years, he found special pleasure in reconnecting with longtime stamp-dealer friends for lunch and conversation—gatherings that became a meaningful and much-anticipated part of his calendar.

Phil also maintained a wide range of other interests, which he explored with the same curiosity and care. These included radio, photography, letterpress printing, sailing and boating, trains, musicals, motorcycling, traveling, and woodturning. Many of his trips were intentionally planned around these interests, reflecting the importance they held in his life.

Phil found joy and contentment in the things that he loved. He appreciated a good movie from his extensive collection, a regular poker game, familiar routines, and—without fail—an Oreo cookie nearly every day of his adult life. He will be remembered for his intelligence, his curiosity, and the steady way he moved through the world.

Phil lived in Illinois, Minnesota, New York, and Texas, and continued his love of exploring new places in retirement, eventually making homes in South Carolina, Florida, Arizona, and his final home in Nevada where he enjoyed many new friendships.

Phil is survived by his wife, Francis Elaine Cordes; his sister, Patricia (Mike) and niece Rebecca (Casto); his first wife Joan; his sons, Mark (Sara) and Scott (Kathryn); his daughter, Laura (Jason); and his beloved grandchildren, Genevieve, Jackson, and Joshua.

Phil will be remembered privately by his family. Those wishing to honor his memory may consider a donation to the National Park Foundation.