Phil N. Klingsheim

Dr. Phil Klingsheim was born in Dallas, Wisconsin March 27, 1931. He attended Pacific University in Oregon on a football scholarship and graduated with a degree in Optometry in 1954. His tall athletic frame and good looks made him stand out both on and off the field. Klingsheim founded the Whittier Vision Center specializing in Visual Training and Special Needs Children; groundbreaking work at that time. He practiced for 54 years, from 1954-2008 serving his patients with meticulous care. He was one of the founders of the College of Optometry and Visual Development and was an active participant in the Optometric Extension Program. Klingsheim was a member of the Rotary Club of La Mirada and celebrated 50 years of perfect attendance. He served as President of Rotary La Mirada, Rio Hondo Optometric Society as well as Chairman of the Southern California Vision Forum. Klingsheim was a faithful and loyal church member all of his life. His dedication and love for others was a powerful testimony to his enduring faith in God. He had passion in all he attempted be it an avid tennis player, Jaguar Aficionado, devoted equestrian and serving students as Adjunct Professor at the Southern California College of Optometry. He was smart and handsome until the day he died but what stands out most was his kindness and generosity. Those of us privileged enough to call him son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, doctor and friend were the lucky ones. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Shirley Klingsheim, three children Ben, Gary, Tanya, nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. This year his beloved daughter Dawn went to be with the Lord. He had two siblings Naomi Glover deceased, and Evangeline Shakarian. Services will be held at Forest Lawn Mortuaries May 19th at 2:00 PM 4471 Lincoln Ave, Cypress, CA 90630. Celebration immediately following at the Courtyard Marriott 5865 Katella Ave, Cypress, CA 90630.