California Carvers Guild

Teaching, Sharing, Promoting the Art of Woodcarving

Phil Okada displays a carved octopus walking staff and a turtle-shaped knife sheath at the 2026 Oakhurst Woodcarvers Rendezvous, surrounded by his wooden carvings.

In Memory: Phil Okada

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.

Phil Okada displays a carved octopus walking staff and a turtle-shaped knife sheath at the 2026 Oakhurst Woodcarvers Rendezvous, surrounded by his wooden carvings.

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.

4 responses to “In Memory: Phil Okada”

  1. Darryl and Linda Easter Avatar
    Darryl and Linda Easter

    We will greatly miss Phil! He was the nicest, kindest person who liked everyone and everyone liked him. His loss is really sad.

    Reply
  2. Jim Wyman Avatar
    Jim Wyman

    Phil was my friend and neighbor. We shared a lot in common knowing each other over 50 years on our block in Glenview.

    Important was our interest in wood which we often talked about. I hope he has a good supply of tight grained old growth where he is now. Also the astronomy must be great in Heaven and I hear you don’t need a telescope. Rest in peace Phil.

    Reply
  3. Libby Teel Avatar
    Libby Teel

    Phil was my neighbor across the street. He was always friendly and gracious. We shared lots of visits if we were both outside. Typical neighbor chats. I really enjoyed them and will always remember the head of his famous cane! I will miss you, Phil.

    Reply
  4. Hector E Mendez Avatar
    Hector E Mendez

    I met Phill while making a telescope at Chabot Telescope Makers at the Chabot Observatory His friendly disposition made such an impression for his dedication and commitment to build a fine instrument to view the sky… what do you know that today he is now among the stars that shine brighter…. You will be missed…Thank you for your smiles dear friend!… Hector E Mendez

    Reply

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