Philip Anthony Fidel

Philip Anthony Fidel was born April 13, 1938, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Philip and Jessie Fidel. He peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of March 7, 2026, in Surprise, Arizona.

Phil attended Saint Michael’s High School in Santa Fe before continuing his education at the College of Santa Fe, where he earned a degree in Chemistry and Biology. He later received certification in Laboratory Medicine from St. Mark’s Hospital in Utah and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Laboratory Medicine from the University of Utah.

Phil had a brilliant mind and a deep love for science and medicine. Throughout his distinguished career, he made significant contributions to the field of laboratory medicine. He served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Utah School of Medicine and later became Vice President at the Associated University of Utah Pathology Reference Laboratory (ARUP), which has grown into a worldwide research and reference laboratory. Philip worked at ARUP until 1993. After retiring, he spent the next ten years traveling the country with his “honey” in their motorhome. Together they visited or passed through all 48 states, making friends everywhere they went.

Phil loved to fish. His passion for fishing was passed on to anyone willing to stand in the river beside him. Although they traveled to many places, all Phil and Joan ever truly wanted was to be together.

Phil was truly an angel on earth sent to Joan and her children. They were married in May of 1973. He became exactly what their family needed — a steady, loving man who cared deeply for them all. Philip loved Joan more than life itself and made sure she always knew she was the love of his life. Every hello and goodbye was sealed with a kiss. He loved her children — Susan, Steve, Nancy, and Sally — as his own, and in time they became just that. Their home was open to everyone, and all who entered felt the warmth and kindness that came from these loving parents.

Philip had three grandchildren — Justin, Britney (“his Bright Eyes”), and Landon. He and Joan always gave them unwavering love and support. Whether it was a dance recital, ball game, birthday, or any special moment, Grandpa and Grandma were always there. Their home in Bountiful was the gathering place for countless meals, game nights, bingo bashes, parties, and treasured family memories.

In 2005, he married Frances Hoppmann in Sun City, Arizona. They shared a home and a joyful life together with friends and neighbors until Frances passed away in 2024.

Phil’s life was marked by dedication to service — not only to his family and friends, but also to his faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. He was a devoted member of Cross of Glory Lutheran Church and School, where he served as Head Elder, on the Board of Education, and as a member of the Church Council. He loved God, loved his church, and loved helping others wherever they were in life. He cared deeply for people and served his neighbors whenever he was able. Many friends, family members, and church members received calls, texts, and emails from Phil filled with scripture, prayers, and encouragement. He knew God’s love for all people and wanted to make sure others knew it too.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Joan (2003); and his second wife, Frances (2024).

He is survived by his sister, Shirley (Ted) Kotch; his children Susan McDaniels, Steve McDaniels, Nancy McDaniels, and Sally Thompson; his grandchildren Justin (Robyn) Nelson, Britney (Paul) Wilkinson, and Landon (Jessica) Nelson; and his eleven great-grandchildren.

Phil will be remembered for his dedication to his profession, his love of family, and his unwavering faith. His legacy lives on through the scientific contributions he made, the institutions he helped build, and the many lives he touched throughout his long and meaningful life.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, Utah. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 12:45-1:45 p.m.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live-stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.