The Reverend Charles Philip Schiller

The Reverend Charles Philip Schiller

Oct 15, 1929 –Nov. 12, 2015

Schiller, 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Tacoma surrounded by his loving family after living with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.

Born in Oakland, CA he spent his childhood years in San Rafael. He graduated from Whitworth University in 1951 on the same day that he married Shirley Ann Gilson, his devoted partner in ministry and adventure. He attended San Francisco Theological Seminary and accepted his first pastorate in Salmon, Idaho. Since then Phil and Shirley have had a fruitful ministry in many Presbyterian congregations in Washington state, including Grace Presbyterian on the Key Peninsula and as visiting pastor for Historic Vaughn Bay Church.

His love of music overflowed into his ministry through choirs, hymn sings, youth camps, and more. Phil loved people. He greeted new faces with his smile and gentle spirit. He asked questions to draw out common interests. In his retirement he volunteered at Allenmore Hospital for 10 years.

Schiller is survived by his wife Shirley and their four children; Steve of Kent, Sandy Smith (Andy) of Seattle, Tom (Elena Knight) of Ft. Myers, FL, and Susan Engels (Martin) of Tumwater. They enjoy the growing families of eight grandchildren Lynne Smith, Katy Smith (John Hower), Shawn Schiller, Justin Engels (Michelle), Zach Engels, Michelle Nedzweckas (Mike), Peter Schiller, and Anika Engels, plus two great-granddaughters, Emma Lynn and Makayla. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Ruth Schiller, and sister, Dorothy (Dede) Simpson (Gary), but is survived by his younger sister, Merilee Bramham (Jack).

The celebration of his life was held at Skyline Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov. 21. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Skyline Presbyterian Church for their Peanut Butter and Jelly Ministry for the homeless or the Ruston Senior Center.