THOMAS PHIFER

1946 - 2024

Tom was born to Beverly Jacobs in Lowell, Massachusetts on Feb 2, 1946. He was one of 4 boys. The family moved out to California when he was 8 and settled in the San Diego area where he continued his education.

Tom met Susan Johnson on a blind date, set up by a friend. After a short romance, the couple was married on June 18, 1964 in Oceanside, where they made their home. Tom attended college and a trade school between working during the early years.

Tom and Sue had 2 children, a daughter Tina born in 1965 and a son Tommy, born in 1973.

The Phifer family pulled up stakes and moved to Big Pine, CA in 1979.

Tom got a job working in the maintenance department and mechanic shop at Caltech Radio Observatory.

After several years at Caltech, Tom decided to become self employed. He got a general contractor’s license and a welding certificate and began taking on work, building and fabricating metal. Tom had a fine mind for mathematics and mechanical engineering which he put to good use in his new career.

It wasn’t all work though. Tom was one of the early pioneers of hang gliding the thermals of the Owens Valley. He was also an avid mountain biker. And he and Susan put on thousands of miles taking trips on their Harley Davidson motorcycle.

After 20 years of contracting, Tom retired. He and Susan bought a lot in Fish Lake Valley on Chiatovich Creek and built a home. They enjoyed neighborhood BBQ’s and exploring the surrounding countryside and old mines on their Polaris Razor.

Tom was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and in his typical style, dug in to fight the disease. In 2022 they moved back to Big Pine to be closer to medical facilities and their daughter.

After a courageous and hard fought battle, Tom passed away at home with his wife and children by his bedside on March 18, 2024.

Tom is survived by Susan, his wife of 60 years, daughter Tina Jones, son Tommy and his wife Shannon, grandson Ryan Jones, and brother Mark Phifer. He will also be missed by many friends and acquaintances.

A memorial gathering will be held at a announced.

Donations in Tom’s name can be made to Hospice of the Owens Valley. later date to be