Obituary - Philip Charles Schatzka

Philip Charles Schatzka was born in Havre, Montana, on June 23, 1984. He died at home in Havre, on Jan. 16, 2016, following a brief illness.

Phil was passionate about books, movies and music. He enjoyed collecting classic albums on vinyl. His favorite era was '70s rock. He could often be heard saying "Oh, the '70s" with a big smile. Phil attended many concerts including David Bowie, Alice Cooper, The Rolling Stones and even danced on the stage with Iggy Pop at the Lollapalooza Music Festival in Chicago.

Phil enjoyed playing board games with family and friends. He was a fierce competitor in his fantasy NASCAR and football leagues. In NASCAR, he was a Jeff Gordon fan. He was a big 49ers and Bronco fan in football, so he always loved his sports Sundays. He was able to attend many races and football games at various venues. He also enjoyed participating in fun runs such as the Ice Breaker and Zombie runs. Phil was a pretty great poker player, too.

Phil attended Havre High School, graduating in 2003. He played on the tennis team and was a member of the 2003 state championship swim team. He was a great actor and participated in Montana Actors' Theatre productions. He played the saxophone in band and was a member of French Club. Through the French Club, he was able to travel to France in 2001.

Phil attended Montana State University in Bozeman. He met many wonderful friends during his time at Bozeman. While attending MSU, he spent a summer abroad at Thames University in London, England. While abroad, he was able to see numerous stage plays and attended the Live8 concert in Hyde Park. Following his semester abroad, he had extensive travels through western and eastern Europe.

Phil graduated from MSU with a Bachelor of Science degree and a baccalaureate honors degree with highest distinction. Phil then attended Montana State University-Northern in Havre, where he graduated with a master's degree in counseling.

Phil loved working with children and helping to enrich their lives. One of his favorite jobs was working at the Havre-Hill County Library. He assisted with the summer children's reading programs. He was currently employed as a family support specialist at Quality Life Concepts of Havre. He loved his job and working with all his clients and co-workers.

Phil is survived by his parents, Chuck and Nancy Schatzka of Havre; sister, Andrea Weule; brother-in-law, Chip Weule; and nephew, Caleb Weule all of Denver.

He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Phil was preceded in death by his grandparents, Chuck and Ruby Schatzka and Howard and Nadyne Dolph, along with his beloved cat of 17 years, Samantha.

Phil's funeral service will be on Friday, Jan. 22, 2016, at 11 a.m. at Holland & Bonine Funeral Chapel with Timothy Maroney officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the Havre-Hill County Library or to an organization of the donor's choice.

Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Please visit Phil's online memorial page at http://www.hollandbonine.com to leave a message of condolence for the family.