Olympia, Washington -

Phil Lonborg, born on November 24, 1954, in Seattle, WA to Earl and Irene Lonborg, passed at age 69 on June 25, 2024, in Olympia, Washington.

Phil’s journey began in Elma, where he attended Elma High School and earned a scholarship to Washington State University. He transferred to Western Washington University as a sophomore where he earned two varsity letters and his teaching degree. Phil’s passion for education and nurturing young minds shaped his long and distinguished career as a teacher and coach. He taught in the Kelso School District, North Thurston School District’s Evergreen Forest Elementary and Timberline High School. He concluded his career at River Ridge High School, re- tiring in 2016 after 39 years of dedicated service.

Phil was not only a revered educator but also a coaching legend, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and athletes. Until 2016, Phil was the only track coach at RRHS--affectionately referred to as “Papa Hawk.” He also coached football, boys’ and girls’ basketball, bowling, and cross country. His illustrious track record while at RRHS included coaching his teams to 3 state championship titles and helping 50 athletes reach state champions in their individual events.

In 2022 he came out of retirement to assist the Yelm H.S. track team, helping them to win a state championship in 2023 and coaching his 51st/52nd first-place champion. Throughout his stints at Timberline, River Ridge, and Yelm, he coached 59 individual state champs, captured 29 league titles, 23 first place finishes at districts, and 23 more top-eight finishes at the state tournament.

On behalf of his dedication to his craft, Phil’s communities recognized him as well. He was 7-time RRHS teacher of the year and in 2016 RRHS named its track after Lonborg. He was named League coach of the year 21 times. In 2019 he was inducted into the Washington State Track & Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and in 2022 he was inducted into the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Hall of Fame as the 2021 Coach of the Year.

His love for life was evident in his personal pursuits as well; he was an avid gardener, boater, traveler, rock concert enthusiast, and dedicated UW Husky fan. He loved his pets, and they were integral parts of the household. Phil cherished time spent with his granddaughters and family, creating memories that they will hold dear.

Phil is survived by his loving wife Debbie; daughter Kelsey and her husband Cody Geddes; son Bryan; stepdaughter Amy Callis; brother Robbie and his wife Connie; sister Candy Palmer and her husband Andy; four granddaughters; two grandsons; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Rebecca and brother Randy.

A Celebration of Life will be held in September, honoring Phil’s legacy and the joy he brought to so many lives. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association in Phil’s memory, supporting a cause close to his heart. His spirit and teachings will continue to inspire and influence many. Phil Lonborg will be remembered as a teaching legacy, a coaching legend, and most importantly, a lover of life.

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