Ramon Philen

Don Philen passed in his sleep after a short illness on Wednesday, July 04, 2018. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia on November 05, 1933 to James and Lucille Philen. Don was a VP Banker at Atlanta Airport Branch, owned his own western store, property manager, rancher, NCHA judge and videographer.

It was his property management job that moved him from Atlanta to Waco, Texas in 1986, where he met his wife, Martha Soukup Philen and they were married on November 05, 1986. Don got started in the horse business with his children; David, Donna, Daryl and Dana by taking them to play days. As owner of the local western store, he realized he was competing against his customers, so he made the switch to cutting and fell in love with it. They bought a small ranch in Crawford, Texas where he continued to do property management, cutting, judging and videoing. Don was a long time NCHA member and the videographer for many NCHA shows. Don and wife, Martha touched so many lives through NCHA shows.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lucille Philen; son, David Philen; grandson, Shawn Hastings and great-granddaughter, Melody Philen.

He is survived by his wife, Martha; his children, Donna, Daryl and Dana; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

The Philen family would like to thank Providence Hospital, Doctors, Nurses and Hospice for all their help. Per Don’s wishes there will be no service.