Phil was born in Portland OR to Jack and Jane St.Clair, he attended grade school in Portland suburbs and graduated from Lake Oswego high school.  He attended Portland community college during the years 1967 and 1968, where he performed general studeis and art. When asked if he was married Phil stated "very!" Mr. St.Clair married his wife Kristy St.Clair in Molalla OR in 1968.   

His first career was as an artist/craftsman working with leather.  His second career has been learning to manage cows and grass on a ranch in Izee.  This is how Phil first became involved with Grant Soil and Water District.  Grant SWCD was helping Phil and Kristy start a restoration project on their property along the South Fork of the John Day River.  The District manager at the time, Dave Wilkinson, approached Phil and suggested he get involved with the Soil and Water District.  Mr. St.Clair followed his advice and has enjoyed his time on Grant SWCD board of directors since 1991.  Phil current term Expires in 2020.