GILLETTE -- Funeral services for Phillip C. Hotchkiss, 75, will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 25, 2007 at Stevenson-Wilson Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., today, April 24, 2007 at Stevenson-Wilson Funeral Home.

He died April 20, 2007.

Known for his unending love of family and friends, he spent most of his time with both. As an expert fly fisherman, he was no stranger to the Black Hills and Bighorn Mountains. Hunting, snowmobiling, star gazing, being involved in motorsports racing and spending time in the outdoors were favorite activities.

Above all, he was known as a friend to those who valued honesty and integrity. His simple approach to life and ability to understand right and wrong is a standard which all should aspire.

He was born in Sheridan on April 22, 1931. He finished high school in Sheridan while living with his grandmother, Estes.

After graduation, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and served in the Korean War. True to his character, he spoke very little about his tour, other than his lost friends in the conflict.

Upon returning from the war, he was married to Beverly in 1953. They had two daughters. After a long illness, she died in 1971.

He later was married to Donna Overman, who brought three boys to the union.

He worked for the Bell Phone Company rising to the rank of regional engineer, before retiring after 25 years of service. He then purchased a local motorcycle dealership, “The Yamaha Shop,” which he owned for 10 years.

Upon selling the dealership, he retired to the Black Hills, which he dearly loved, spending time with his family at the cabin he built. During his years in the Black Hills, he spent time working on his land and in the winter, operating a “groomer,” prepping snowmobile trails.

He returned to Gillette to spend the rest of his days with family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 35 years of Gillette; sister, Lanice Smith of Buffalo; daughters, Debbie Morgan of Gillette and Tere Ross of Cheyenne; sons, Craig Overman of Newcastle; Clayton Overman of Salina, Utah; Clint Overman of Eveleth, Minn.; 13 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren , one nephew and a very dear friend.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents and his father and mother, Richard and Thelma Hotchkiss.

Memorials and condolences may be sent in care of Stevenson-Wilson Funeral Home, 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette.

Casper Star-Tribune - April 24, 2007