Philo Macdonald

Philo Grant Macdonald (July 8, 1945-July 10, 2013) died at his home in Casper. Philo was born in Berkley, CA to James and Elisabeth Macdonald. His father was a Paleontologist, Professor, and a Lt. Col. in the Army Reserves. His mother was a Clinical Social Worker specializing in work with Veterans and their families. Philo spent his childhood years in California, South Dakota, and Florida. Philo graduated high school in Florida and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Florida State University. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduated Cum laude in 1967. He completed courses towards his master's degree at UCLA, until he enlisted in the Army in May 1969. Philo married Barbara Valenzuela in August of 1969, then settled into his permanent duty station at Fort Richardson, Anchorage, AK. He was honorably discharged in May 1971. Upon his discharge, Philo and Barbara traveled the northern United States and Canada. They lived in California for a while, where they had their first born daughter, Anne. They eventually settled in Casper, WY in 1975. Their twin daughters, Marie and Jacqueline, were born in 1977. Philo spent his working years with the US Government. However, his greatest achievement was his philosophical writings titled, "Forethoughtful Kind-hearted Pursuit of Happiness". His writings were published in local and national MENSA publications. Philo loved the outdoors and often spent his free time at Garden Creek Falls or Edness Kimball Wilkins Park; his "thinking spots." Philo is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara, his three daughters, two brothers, and seven grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered by his family for his love of books, music, the outdoors, and his family. After Glow I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done...