Pendleton, Oregon - John Philip (Phil) Kline was born on June 19, 1939, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Allen and Lorene (Fleming) Kline, and grew up in nearby Carlisle. He grew into a man who was compassionate yet stubborn as an ox when it mattered, he was fair-minded and able to see all sides of an issue. He didn't take himself too seriously and was known for his positive nature, and impish grin. He loved a new joke almost as much as he loved telling it, and he rarely waited long to share one. He was a natural storyteller, often sharing memorable moments from his life and the interesting people he'd known along the way.

Phil Kline lived his 86 years with a generous spirit, a clear sense of integrity, and a good dose of mischief. He passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025 from complications of heart failure, leaving behind a life full of stories, friendships, hard work, a love for the outdoors, and adventures shared with the people he cared about.

After graduating high school, he earned his bachelor's degree in forestry from Iowa State University. He and Sharon had known each other since they were young, and on October 6, 1962 they married. A month later, they began their first adventure together, packing up and moving to an unknown area and tiny town of Chiloquin, Oregon, where he started his career with the U.S. Forest Service. He loved the work from the beginning and spent more than 30 years with the agency.

During his career, Phil managed timberlands, served as a district ranger on the Ochoco National Forest, fought forest fires, horse-packed into remote areas, and took part in wild horse round-ups. His work carried him across Oregon until he and Sharon eventually made their home in Pendleton in 1981. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and believed strongly in caring for the land he served.

He loved traveling, backpacking, elk hunting, camping, cooking, mushroom hunting, gardening, and any excuse to spend time outside with family and friends. His Iowa roots stayed firmly with him—nothing delighted him more than the yearly arrival of sweet corn seeds from a family friend, which he would proudly grow in his shared garden.

He had a legendary lead foot and loved the loud rumble of an engine or a good chainsaw. He installed glass packs to multiple vehicles, something that brought out a kid-like delight in him. Anyone who rode with him knew he drove with equal parts confidence and no fear.

In retirement, Phil stayed active and connected. He and Sharon traveled often, he rarely missed his grandchildren's sporting events, and he gave generously of his time. He volunteered with Kiwanis parking cars during Round-Up, served as a Chamber Ambassador, and enjoyed gathering with friends. He valued the camaraderie of the Old Smokeys, a group of retired Forest Service colleagues. Any opportunity to go RV'ing, camping, or enjoying the outdoors with family was a welcome one.

Phil will be deeply missed by his family: his wife of 63 years, Sharon (Cummings) Kline; brother, Donald Kline (Marge, deceased); son, Doug (Lana) Kline; daughter, Darcey (Dean Dills) Kline; grandson, John (Amy) Kline; granddaughter, Hailey Kline; great-grandchildren, Trent and Cody Kline; nephew, Bill Kline, and many other relatives far and wide. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Lorene Kline.

Phil lived honestly, laughed easily, and traveled through life with curiosity. His stories, humor, and presence will be treasured always, as will the way he greeted you with a warm hello that made you feel he was happy you were there.