Phillip Calderon

Phillip Calderon, age 80, of San Bernardino, California passed away on January 10. Phillip was born on May 1, 1941 in Montana to Joe and Victoria. He was one of six siblings: Josie, Lydia, Rosa, Danny, and Tonia. The family moved to California where eventually he found his way to San Bernardino. He enlisted in the Army and there he was first introduced to boxing, a sport he continued as both a fighter and trainer.

Phillip worked for the Santa Fe Railroad company for over 20 years, mainly at the San Bernardino yard, but often traveling to Barstow, Needles, and Los Angeles. He went to trade school for welding, a skill he used not only at Santa Fe but in making gates and fences for his home and the homes of others. In his free time, Phillip loved to go fishing and hunting. He also bought and restored two classic cars. He would always lend a hand to his sisters, his friends, and his neighbors.

It was at one of his first jobs where Phillip met his wife Sarah. She was the lovely young lady working in the office, and after some time he worked up the courage to ask her out. They got married in 1967, and just celebrated 54 years of marriage. They bought a little house together in San Bernardino and lived there for over 40 years, expanding the house and growing avocados and fruit in the backyard. Together they raised their only child, Phyllis.

In recent years, Phillip loved to spend his time doing things for his grandson Fox and his granddaughter Violet. He found great joy in watching Fox play little league baseball and in listening to Violet play piano. He was a happy taste-tester for their baked goods. He enjoyed telling his stories to his son-in-law Andy. He also liked to take naps on the couch with his beloved dog Smokey.

Phillip will be missed by his family and many friends.