Philip Karman Smith

Smith, Philip K., 68 of Chandler, AZ., passed away on Friday, January 23, 2015, at the Lund Family Hospice Home, following a courageous battle with cancer. He had overcome many impossible health issues over the past 17 years, always beating the odds until the final devastating long term effects of Agent Orange ultimately ended his life. He was born in Lansing, Michigan, and graduated from Sexton High School, then went on to graduate magna cum laude from Henry Ford College in Dearborn. On December 23, 1966, he married Linda Rosser, also from Lansing, who remained the love of his life for 48 years. Together they raised two wonderful children, Todd and Renee`.

After serving with the U.S. Army in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968 as a telecommunications expert, Phil pursued a professional career that spanned more than 35 years in four states. During his long tenure with AT&T, Phil was a successful and innovative business developer and marketing manager most known for establishing visionary programs, one of which resulted in the formation of an entire new division. Phil accepted an early retirement from AT&T to join Hewlett-Packard where he expanded his professional interests into emerging technologies. He next joined Bechtel Telecom, where he applied his telecommunications expertise to international clients in Latin America and concluded his professional career with Texas Capital Semiconductor working with clients in central Europe.

Phil loved Linda and his family, Las Vegas, gold panning and fishing. As a doting grandfather he enjoyed many hours watching his grandchildren’s activities, always cheering them on to success. Phil inspired many people throughout his life, encouraging them to reach their own goals.

Phil is survived by his wife Linda, son Todd and his wife Katrina, daughter Renee, parents Joyce and Ed Rosser, and four grandchildren – Paul, Clayton, Ella and Eden.

There will be a celebration of his life on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at 5pm, at the Springfield Golf Community Ballroom, in Chandler, AZ. His many friends are invited to attend and share their memories of Phil.

In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to www.hov.org in Philip's honor.