The California Carvers Guild mourns the loss of one of our members, Phil Okada, who passed away in September 2026.
Phil was a lifelong woodcarving enthusiast and a dedicated member of our non-profit educational organization. He committed much of his time to the community, serving as a tutor at the Hayward Senior Center and maintaining close ties with the members of Tri-Valley Carvers, Santa Clara Valley Carvers, Sonoma County Woodcarvers, and other CCG Chapters.
Phil’s passion for the craft was evident until the very end. He was a mainstay at the Oakhurst Woodcarvers Rendezvous, where he continued to promote woodcarving and inspire others with his creativity and craftsmanship.
We honor Phil’s memory and his contributions to the carving community. He leaves behind a legacy of mentorship and a body of work that reflects his joy and skill, captured perfectly in his annual appearance at Oakhurst, where he shared his carvings with friends and fellow carvers. Our thoughts are with Phil’s family, friends, and the many students he inspired throughout his life.
If you knew Phil, please share a few words in the comments.