Father Philip Joseph Smith was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to parents Dr. Frank A. Smith, D.D.S. and Bernadette Baier. He is survived by his brothers Dr. Robert Smith of Lancaster WI, William and John Smith, both of Glen Haven, WI.
Fr. Phil’s Education: High school and college (B.A.) – St. Francis Seminary, Milwaukee WI; Novitiate – Immaculate Heart, Godfrey IL; Theology – Oblate College, San Antonio, Texas. Fr. Phil was Ordained to the Priesthood in the Congregation of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate on December 17, 1966 in Belleville IL.
Fr. Phil’s Obediences Included: Chaplain – Student Residence, Lower Post & Holy Family Mission, Iskut YT; Sabbatical – Institute of Contemporary Spirituality (Ignatian), Spokane WA., CREDO – Gonzaga University; Native Ministries Consortium – Vancouver School of Theology; Pastor – St. Anthony’s, Houston BC, Granisle & Telkwa; Associate Pastor – Saanich Peninsula Parish; Associate Pastor – Resurrection – Parish – Fort St. John BC; Associate Pastor – St. Joseph’s Parish, Smithers and Houston, Granisle & Telkwa; Pastor – Holy Family Church, Ucluelet BC and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Tofino BC.
Fr. Phil was raised on a farm in Wisconsin. He described himself as “a country boy, at home in jeans and boots.” He believed in a balanced life style – physical and mental work, prayer and recreation, contemplation and action. These were part of his spirituality. He never aspired to be in a large parish in the city, sitting at a desk bogged down in administration. Fr. Phil wanted to do good work in liturgy and catechetics. He enjoyed working with scripture and preparing good homilies … attempting to “break the bread of the word”. He searched for an effective means of outreach to other people. He was well-read and brilliant. He held strong convictions and opinions on many subjects. Fr. Phil’s other interests included: Photography, computers, writing, geography, natural history, music, gardening and when fit, hiking and paddling.
Fr. Phil retired in October 2006 at the Forest Glen Residence in Ucluelet BC. In 2014 he moved to Pandosy Place Oblate Residence in Vancouver. He subsequently moved to Broadway Lodge in Vancouver where he passed away peacefully on the evening of July 26, 2022, at age 81.
Fr. Phil will be fondly remembered by his Oblate brothers, relatives and friends. The Oblates wish to express their gratitude to Fr. Phil’s caregivers and staff at Pandosy Place and Broadway Lodge.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine’s Parish (2028 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver) on Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 10:00 am.
Viewing will be held at 9:30am. Burial at the Oblate of Mary Immaculate Cemetery in Mission, BC.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Rev Philip Smith OI October 31 1940 – July 26 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Vancouver, Province: Colombie britanique