Richard Phillip 'Phil' Witt

Richard Phillip "Phil" Witt, 78, of Casper, Wyo., passed away on July 17, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Phil was born in Casper, Wyo., on August 24, 1943, to Leona and Donald Witt. Shortly after Phil's birth, his father, Donald, was killed while serving in the military. When Phil was a toddler, his mother married Fred Berry, who loved and raised Phil as his own. Together they added two sisters, Bonnie and Nancy, and one brother, Ace, to the family.

Phil grew up in Casper and graduated from Natrona County High School in 1961. In his younger years, he enjoyed working on and driving hot rod cars, dancing, and spending time with his family and friends.

On April 27, 1963, he married Mary Lou Bittleston. Shortly after, they welcomed their son, Glenn, then a few years later, their daughter, Michelle. As a family, they had many adventures together, the most interesting being the purchase of A&W Lanes in Thermopolis, Wyo., on June 1, 1979. The family worked at the restaurant and bowling center together, building an entire community of customers and employees who became like family. Phil and Mary Lou ran the restaurant and bowling center successfully for 30 years before retiring in 2008. Upon retirement, the couple returned to Casper.

Back in Casper, Phil continued to spend time with family and friends. He perfected the art of gardening and kept everyone well stocked with freshly grown veggies. He continued to be the chef for all family events and get-togethers and continued his love for tinkering on old cars. Phil will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Phil is survived by his wife, Mary Lou of Casper; son, Glenn (Paula) Witt of Thermopolis; daughter, Michelle (Tim) Sisneros of Casper; granddaughters, Mandy (Ricky) McFee of Casper and Chelsey (Shane) Sullivan and Savanah (Scotty) Hunter, both of Colorado Springs, Colo.; grandsons, Richard (Sammie) Witt of Cheyenne, Wyo., Zach (Breanne) Walker of Casper, Anthony Vargas-Gonzales (Jennifer) of Thermopolis; 15 great-grandchildren; as well as many honorary grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Phil was preceded in death by his father, Donald Glenn Witt; parents, Fred and Leona Berry; and his sister, Nancy Berry.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 8, at 10 a.m. at Agape Church in Thermopolis, 245 Hwy 120 West. Lunch of bacon cheeseburgers and root beer floats will follow. To donate flowers call, (307) 277-8307 or (307) 480-0432.

Cremation has taken place. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Home.