"It is hard to imagine that it has been so long since your passing. Your words and guidance from my time at UAT is something I will never forget. You cracked me over the head a few times when I messed up but it was from a warm heart, and it truly showed when I came to you and you graciously gave me your time, to work with me and help me. Your character, your resolve, your attitude is something I strive to emulate every day. When I herd about your passing I tried to organize people to help donate in your honor, unfortunately It didn't out how I planned and got lost in the passage of time. Until last year when I was notified I had funds that people had submitted and needed to collect. I wanted to match what was given but I was down on my luck at the time. Everything has changed this year, things are looking up, I have a great position and doing work that can hopefully change the world. I owe a part of this to you and your teachings. I am so sorry it took so long, but thankfully I can say I have made a 250$ contribution to the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in your honor. I really miss our conversations, our banter, but I will treasure everything and keep it close to my heart. And hopefully make the world a better place. Rest easy my friend. -Kendal Cormany"
In loving memory of
Philip Hartley
"Didn't suffer fools gladly." 61, beloved friend, brother, & dad passed away on September 4th, 2015. Born in Helensburgh, Scotland and raised in the west of Scotland, Phil was known for his sharp wit and brilliance. He gained a first class honors in computing at Edinburgh University. During his degree he won an engineering award which resulted in a summer study in Switzerland. At the time, Edinburgh University was known worldwide for it's top computer engineering program and they said Phil was by far their best student. He married Lorna Dyer just after finishing his education. They had two children together.
Phil went on to spend many years working for IBM, eventually moving to Dallas, TX before starting his own computer consulting business in Phoenix, AZ.
His kitchen clearly shows the signs of a man who took great delight in cooking. His 'world famous bagels' were demanded often by family members & friends and his cedar plank salmon was always a hit.
Phil's curious nature made him knowledgeable in many arenas. He shared his affection for astronomy with anyone around after the sun went down. He would point to different constellations, rattling off their stories with great detail and appreciation.
Phil loved nature. He volunteered many hours at the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy doing IT and steward work. He was a passionate bird watcher and kept a record book of all the different types of birds he spotted and spent many of his spare hours at the Conservancy.
He was incredibly proud of his two kids. His son, Daniel served as a U.S. Marine. Daniel completed two tours overseas; one in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. Phil shared his love of American sports with his daughter, and anyone who would listen (or not) at the pub, where he enjoyed many spirited debates and a pint or two.
Phil is survived by his kids, Kate and Dan, his brother, Peter, sister-in-law, Sue, nieces and nephews Stuart, Lauren, Amy and Barbara.
The celebration of Phil's life will be on September 17th at 3pm at the Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary at 6500 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale, 85254 followed by a reception at the Four Peaks at 15745 N Hayden Rd., Unit D, Scottsdale, 85260 where we will raise pints and fill the bar with laughter while sharing stories of Phil's humor.
In lieu of flowers the family has asked that contributions to honor Phil's love of the Sonoran Desert and the McDowell Mountains be sent to the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy 16435 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 or online at http://bit.ly/1MAqphR.
Tributes
"I had the pleasure of knowing Phil through our mutual affiliation at MSC. He was a great friend and always willing to share his knowledge of computer technology and nature. He will be missed by all who knew him."
"I never knew Phil, but he has a wonderful family, and sounded like a great guy. Our hearts go out to Lorna, Katie and Dan. Phil has two wonderful kids that are making the world take notice. He had wonderful support in his last days. May the days ahead bring all the wonderful memories of his full life and a very nice family. Our best to you all."
"Phil was so full of life and laughter. We will miss your presence Phil, every time there is a New Steward Orientation or MSC social event."
"My thoughts are with Phil and his family. Phil was a colleague and a friend. His humor and passion were always wonderful to be around."
"Phil made a big impact on me in the short time I knew him. I\'ll miss him and think of him whenever I wear a white shirt and tie."