Philip Allen Barfuss, 83

Our beloved father, Philip A. Barfuss, passed on Dec. 23, 2022, at Hospice House.

Philip was born to August and Myrtle Barfuss in Sandpoint, Idaho, on May 10, 1939. He grew up in Vay, Idaho, and attended Seneacquoteen Grade School, a one-room school. He graduated from Sandpoint High School. He played football and was president of FFA. He met and married Maribel Surface. They were married for 60 years.

He started working for the Spokane International Railroad out of high school as a welder, then moved to the Union Pacific Railroad. He moved to Spokane with the UPRR and worked on a survey crew as a draftsman. Over the years he also worked as an inspector and eventually, the railroad moved him to St. Louis, where he worked in customer service. He told everyone that he “did every job for the railroad, except drive the train.” He retired in 1999 after working 43 years for the railroad.

He and Bell returned to Spokane after retirement to be closer to kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. He enjoyed having family barbecues, golfing, reading stories to the grandkids and great-grandkids, as well as camping. He and Bell were snowbirds for a few winters. He was also a Gonzaga basketball fan.

Philip was preceded in death by Bell and a brother, Gale.

He is survived by his daughter, Connie; son Russ (Chris); grandson Todd (Sarah); granddaughter Teasha (Mike); and five great-grandkids.

A memorial service was held Jan. 28, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Pines Cemetery Mausoleum, 12116 E 16th Ave., Spokane Valley, Wash.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please donate to your favorite charity.