Philip A. Reimnitz, 60, passed away Oct. 11, 2012, of natural causes.

Philip was born Nov. 12, 1951, in Crosby, N.D., to the Rev. Alwin and Helen Reimnitz. He grew up in Bismarck, N.D., as the oldest of nine children.

Philip graduated from North Dakota State University in Fargo in 1974, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education/social science. 

He was selected as North Dakota’s Athlete of the Year in 1973 and inducted into the NDSU Hall of Fame in 1987 for wrestling. Phil is known as NDSU’s greatest pinner and still holds the record of 22 straight pins during his 1972-1973 season, taking the NCAA College Division Championship at 126 pounds. 

Phil remained involved in wrestling as a referee at the high school and college level. He was never happier than when sons Curt and Zach wrestled. Zach continues to work with the Flathead Braves and Little Guy wrestling.

Phil worked in North Dakota as an OSHA educator prior to his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Phil is survived by sons Curt and Michelle, and Zachary, and daughter Rachel Reimnitz, all of Kalispell; and eight siblings.

People were attracted to Phil by his wonderful smile and sense of humor. There were never enough hours to hunt or fish. No matter the weather, Phil could be found dressed in camo and cooking on the grill.

A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 24, at Glacier Church in Kalispell. Please wear camo!