Philip Schmit

With great sadness the family of Philip J. Schmit, 74, of Ojai, CA announces his passing Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at his home in Upper Ojai. A Celebration of Phil’s life will be held Sunday, June 23 in Ojai, CA. For more information on the location, time and to RSVP please email ktschmit8@gmail.com, text or leave a message at 773-405-3252.

Phil was born in Bernard to Cyril and Rosebella (Otting) Schmit December 28, 1944. He had an idealic Midwestern childhood in Bernard and after the age of 13 in Waukon. At 19, Phil traveled cross country to explore California but ran out of money and has been a resident of Ventura County, CA ever since. Phil was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965 and served in Japan during the Vietnam War. Phil returned to Ventura after the Army and married Helen Stallings Schmit June 5, 1971 in Newbury Park.

After moving to Ventura County, Phil worked for SoCal Gas Co., Knights of Columbus, Ventura County Department of Human Services and served as the elected Ventura County Clerk and Recorder from 2003-2008, where he also served on the boards of multiple state and national associations. He was Vice President of the Los Assholeros, involved with his daughters’ 4-H troop, and a master joke teller. Phil enjoyed most people, cooking, reading and traveling throughout the United States. Phil enjoyed all sports, especially racquet ball. He was a gregarious, good, kind and gentle soul.

Phil is preceded in death by his father, mother and brother, Richard Schmit of Peoria, IL; his brother-in-law, Bob Buckley of Seattle, WA; and his brother-in-law, David Stallings of Santa Paula, CA. Phil is survived by his wife, Helen; his daughters, Sarah and Katie; and his sisters, Ann (Pat) Fahey of Brownsville, MI, Therese Buckley of Seattle, WA and Rita (Guy) Underdahl of Rock Hill, SC; his brother-in-law, Jim Stallings, and sister-in-law, Joyce Schmit, of Peoria IL; numerous nieces and nephews; and many good friends.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Phil’s honor. Phil will always be remembered for his wit and kind heart.