Obituary of Philip Koller

Philip Koller passed away May 29, 2013 in a peaceful manner surrounded by the family that loved him dearly. Philip was born August 13th, 1914 in Chicago Illinois. Philip lost his brother Harold and father William in the same year at the young age of 3. He was raised with love by his mother Etta and his older brother Sydney. At a young age, still in his teens, he traveled the United States during the Great Depression to help support his family which cultivated his sales skills. During one of these frequent trips, Phil had a car accident during a stormy night. While speaking to his insurance agent, the agent said I know a beautiful woman you should meet, Ruth Schuham. Completely smitten, they married on April 15, 1942 in Chicago. Philip soon served with great pride in the Navy during World II. During three long years and being thousands of miles apart from his newlywed wife Ruth, they managed to keep their love strong through daily letters that they wrote to each other in which Philip has kept all these years. Following the war's end he came to Colorado during a sales trip and fell in love with our beautiful state. With his early experiences and strong work ethic eventually brought him great business success following the conquering of many roadblocks along the way. On May 11, 1947, Ruth presented to Philip a son named after his deceased brother, Harold. Philip was a major believer and promoter of this great country, and felt much pride in his service during the war. As a proud conservative Republican, he led many spirited conversations with friends and family. His other love was the importance of religious understanding among the faiths. He served locally as chairman of the Jewish Chautauqua Society, for many years, promoting their interfaith efforts. He was a long time member of Congregation Emanuel and especially enjoyed the beautiful music. After his beloved wife Ruth passed away in November, 1993 from breast cancer and through mutual friendships, he kept in touch with Marion Schwartz. Marion became his loving companion for over 16 years. He is survived by his only son Harold (Loni) Koller, his longtime companion and love Marion Schwartz, five grand children Scott (Kathy) Koller, Kevin (Tracey) Koller, Brett(Lisa) Koller, Teade Koller and Jill Koller and six great grandchildren, Hayden, Mackenzie, Kenai, Carson, Jayden, and Kaitlynn Koller. Service, Monday, 9:30am, Temple Emanuel. Interment Emanuel Cemetery. Contributions can be made to The Denver Hospice or Congregation Emanuel.