Philip John Halverson

Philip John Halverson passed away quietly at his home on March 20, 2018. Everyone fortunate enough to have crossed Philip’s path would unanimously agree he truly believed he had “the world on a string.” Life for him was a song; each day was a reason for celebration. Philip welcomed everyone he met. His charismatic voice, infectious sense of humor, generous nature, and his electric blue eyes always put people at ease.

Philip attended St. Ignatius College Preparatory and Lowell High School. He matriculated to the University of California, Berkeley, where he was affiliated with the Kappa Alpha Fraternity. After his service with the U.S. Coast Guard, he received his law degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law.

Philip then headed for New York to study acting with Lee Strasberg and Stella Adler. Performing under the name of Philip Hamilton, he returned to Hollywood and contracted with MGM and Paramount by way of the Screen Actors Guild.

Often, Philip humorously declared, “Every lawyer is an actor!” With that in mind, he successfully opened real estate law practices in Beverly Hills and San Francisco.

Philip’s many interests, including history, music, travel, cooking, boating and golf, exemplified his passion for life. An active member of the Bohemian Club, the Olympic Club and the Claremont Country Club, he enjoyed the camaraderie of his numerous life long friends.

For all his outgoing nature, Philip was a private person, fiercely devoted to, and proud of, his wife Jill Zuber Halverson and his two sons, John Philip (JP) and Lachlan. His loving, predeceased mother, Margaret May Hamilton, encouraged his self-reliance, confidence and respect for all two and four legged friends.

Unbeknownst to his family, Philip kept a diary. His last entry read: “I have a very happy life. I have a beautiful wife. I have 2 wonderful sons. Life is GREAT!!! Thank you!” As per Philip’s wishes, a private family service has been held.