I first met Phil at Otago University, and we later became friends in Auckland. He was one of those rare people who combined a sharp mind with a genuinely kind and gentle nature. Always thoughtful, always interesting — and always good company. What I remember most though is his warmth, his dry wit, and the way he lit up a conversation — whether it was about politics, tech, rugby, or just life. He was deeply devoted to Cindy and the boys, and always carried himself with humility and heart. It was hard seeing dementia slowly take its toll, but Phil’s kindness and calm spirit never really left him. He was a true friend, and I’ll miss him.

Phil was a good friend over 27 years, a gentle, kind and witty man, who was endlessly interesting to talk with before his fronto-temporal dementia slowly robbed him of his mental faculties. While competitive, he was not at all controlling. In a few periods over a dozen years, he was also a good “boss” when I did contract programming part-time for his software business, and this working relationship never interfered with our friendship. He was a blisteringly fast programmer, like I’ve not seen elsewhere. Phil felt strongly about software usability, from a practical standpoint (as opposed to today’s emphasis on mere “look and feel”), and had a strong instinct for smart and relatively simple solutions to tricky problems. Around the mid-1990s Phil had taken over an underdeveloped package for the flat glass industry, and developed it to a comprehensive system, eventually amounting to (including lots of blank space for readability and some duplication) two or three million lines of code. He originated a software tool for navigating through the hierarchy of procedure calls, which, coupled with his fast coding and intellect, made it possible for him to manage (and me and our friend Jim Collins to find and work our way around parts of) such a huge system, which would normally have been developed by a sizeable team. Through his focus on simplicity, his package was easier for industry staff to learn but comparable in features to its more expensive competitors – and often more efficient to use. For many years, Phil made for a goodly share of the conversation in our Friday dinner group. His loving loyalty and commitment to Cindy and the boys was always evident, and he rarely showed signs of irritation with anything, much less anger, though he had clear views on politics and social issues. In his last years, Phil remained the consistently gentle and kind man I readily loved. To Cindy and his sons and siblings, I wish for you every solace. Rest in peace, Phil. David Loftus

Hi Cindy , Jericho and Rueben , Sorry I couldn't be with you all today . I am very happy to be have been part of Phil's life . From the social occasions at Galbraiths tavern to the sharing of food whether it was a Steamboat in Queen Street or a curry at Ravees . The parties we shared in Mt Albert were a good time and I learnt more about Phil and the family , everytime I went to one . I hope to catch up with all sometime when I am in Auckland lots of love and good wishes Greg

C Bogom Spokonoe Noche! Michael O'Hagan! Senatus Populusque Romanorum

We met as enemies on the Littlebourne, As respectful warriors in the Dojo, As cousins on the streets of Otepoti, As friends flatting together in Hart Street, As fierce competitors on the chess board. Four wooden tournament size chess boards, one of which you and Lewis gifted to me. I shall remember always grateful for the things you did and I never said thank you for. Till the next battle my friend, ma te Atua I nga wa katoa (may God be with you always).

Dear Cindy, Jericho and Reuben Phil was a character, a man of high intellect, language and knowledge that would put most of us to shame. Along with family, he had a deep love of both politics and sports, coaching football when Reuben was playing and of course he was an Otago rugby man through and through. When it came to politics he had a political astuteness, few could compete with. Phil didn't mind stirring the pot ever so slightly with those whose politics he may have disagreed with, and we had many a laugh as to what he was plotting next. I miss our chats on the sidelines as our boys played football and on the berms in the street where we live. Life isn't quite the same not having Phil to chat to and seeing him striding off down the road on another of his daily walks he loved so much. Taken from us to soon, one of those big men who had a big, gentle heart and a kind thoughtful soul. May my good Neighbour rest in peace. The Laird's of #7

Phil, was a very intelligent man, and gentle. He had an amazing way with words and wit. Now at peace Sending your love to Cindy, Jericho and Ruben Louise and John Penny

I could not wish for, or even imagine a closer more loyal friend than Phil. Throughout our teenage years we shared in life’s ups and downs. Phil always had my back. My trust in him and his in me was like we were brothers. From hair-raising escapades on motorbikes and in cars to playing snooker, billiards and pool games to chess (at which he beat me every time) he was a master. In fact anything he turned his attention to he excelled at. Always a perfect gentleman, caring and thoughtful for others we stayed in touch right up until now. We would chat on the phone for hours and visit each other when able. Phillip’s composed stature and intelligence were only outshone by his kindness and loving heart especially to his Wife Cindy and two boys Jericho and Ruben. I will think of him always and will miss him with an aching heart. A true friend beyond compare Fare well my dearest friend.

Thank you Phil, for the years of friendship, fun and laughter we’ve been able to share. We will always treasure those wonderful memories.

Phil was a very good friend to our son Richard Burge. They met while they were at University in Dunedin. He visited our farm at Rerewhakaaitu.