1962 - 2025
Phillip "Phil" Jay Croyle, an adventurer who charted his own course through life, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at his home in Winfield, Kansas. He was 63.
Born in Florida on February 7, 1962, to Allen Paul and Mary Alice (Okpealuk) Croyle, Phil was a proud Inupiaq and a native of Turtle Island. Though raised in Rapid City, South Dakota, he carried a deep passion for his culture throughout his life. He believed the truest education came not from a classroom, but from real-life experience and connection to the land, always living life on his own terms.
This adventurous spirit and connection to the land were evident in his eclectic and colorful career path. His journey saw him chase thrills as a race car driver, work with his hands as a lumberman, navigate the rugged decks of salmon boats, and engage with people from all walks of life as a fireworks dealer, carnival worker, and blackjack dealer. He also ventured into marketing and sales and, in a chapter fondly remembered by those who knew him, was even a berry picker (lol).
He is survived by his sons, Jason of Minnesota and Michael of South Dakota; his sisters, Nonanna of Texas and Katrina of Tennessee; his brother, Jude of Minnesota; and his personal friend, Jennifer of Montana. He shared significant chapters of his life with his former wife, Debra, and with his long-term partners, Leah of the Lummi Nation and Tracy of Boise, Idaho.
Phil is now reunited with those who passed before him: his parents; his beloved daughter, Jenna Lee; and his siblings, Joe, Robert, Bear (Allen Jr.), Michael, and Chenoa.
Arrangements are under the direction of Miles Funeral Service in Winfield.
To honor Phil’s life, his Indigenous heritage, and his desire to help others, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in his name to support Native American mental health and substance abuse recovery. All donations will benefit the Thundermaker Wellness Center in Arizona, a 100% indigenous-led facility rooted in ceremony, culture, and connection. These contributions can be coordinated through Miles Funeral Service.
