Born on March 30, 1941 in New York City, Philip grew up with his sister, Helen, in the Bronx before serving as a Specialist in the U.S. Army in Turkey and working in the Pentagon in the early 1960s. He was proud to say that he got in more mischief than any other private.
In 1970 Phil moved to Reno and Sparks, NV, working in the casino and gaming industry as a Pit Boss, and manager, for Riverside, Harrahs, and Harold’s. He opened the first golf driving range in Sparks, NV in the mid 1970s and owned a deli in Truckee, CA near Donner Pass, bringing a bit of the NYC style delicatessen to the Wild West.
Phil settled in Mississippi in the 1990s, working and thriving at Boomtown Casino, Biloxi. Soon after, he opened the Ocean Springs Putt Putt, a mini-golf course, go-kart, and doughnut shop entertainment center. Testament to his generosity, when Hurricane Katrina hit in August of 2005, Phil took care of an entire neighborhood with dry places to sleep and plenty of food to share.
He is predeceased by his brother-in-law, Neil Van Valkenburgh.
Philip is survived by his loving sister, Margaret Helen Van Valkenburgh; devoted niece, Linda Van Valkenburgh; great nephew, Charles Burkardt; and great nieces: Samantha Burkardt Mullen and Ren Burkardt.
Philip was a good man. Kind and funny. He had endless stories and a ready laugh. We will miss his characteristic whisper, his Mardi Gras beads, his perfect hot dogs, and the countless small details of his presence. We take comfort knowing that he is spending time with Pop and Mom, and hitting golf balls on the driving range with Neil.
Funeral services and burial will be at the convenience of the family.
