We are heartbroken to share the passing of Phil Coontz, a truly special soul.

Born on June 11, 1991, Phil brought joy, warmth, and authenticity everywhere he went. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued simply by being himself. At just 34 years old, Phil leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and genuine connection that will continue to live on through everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

Phil grew up in Gardena, California, and truly embodied the Southern California spirit. A state-champion swimmer, he taught surfing, loved rollerblading along the Strand, and carried that love of adventure with him throughout his life. After recently moving to Sacramento, Phil embraced exploring Northern California, enjoying trips to San Francisco and the Sierra Nevada.

Phil was incredibly proud of being Filipino and shared his culture generously and joyfully. He loved cooking lumpia and pancit for anyone and everyone, using food as another way to build connection and community.

Phil earned his undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University and later completed his Master’s Degree in Student Affairs at Merrimack College outside of Boston. While living on the East Coast, Phil fell in love with theater, and he and his partner Austin regularly traveled to New York City to attend Broadway shows together.

With over more than 15 years in student affairs, Phil was deeply passionate about his work and unwavering in his commitment to helping students and colleagues succeed. He walked alongside them every step of the way, always advocating, encouraging, and believing in their potential. Beyond his professional role, Phil was a fierce supporter of LGBTQ+ communities, volunteering to uplift LGBTQ+ students and staff at UConn, Cal State Fullerton, and UC Davis. He was a multi-year volunteer with WACUHO and recently joined the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce.

Phil moved to the Sacramento area in 2022 with Austin to work at UC Davis, where he quickly built a strong and loving community both professionally and personally. He is survived by his partner Austin Spence, his partner Bryan Cox, his parents Angie and Ray Coontz, his brothers Raycho and J.P. Coontz, Austin’s parents Marie and Kurt Spence, his beloved dogs Boba and Mochi, and a large chosen family who loved him deeply.

This GoFundMe has been created to support Phil’s parents, Angie and Ray, and his family in Los Angeles during this incredibly difficult time. Funds raised will help ease the financial burdens they are facing as they grieve the loss of their beloved son and navigate the days ahead.

Any contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser and holding Phil’s family in your thoughts means just as much. Our lives, our community, and our hearts are forever changed by Phil. We will honor his life, carry his light forward, and remember him always.