Phillip Joseph Saumur

Phillip J. Saumur passed away on June 25, 2024, in Long Beach, CA. Phillip was born in Grand Forks, ND. His father, Joseph, moved to California to get a job. Phillip moved to Bellflower, CA with his mother, Agnes and younger sister, Carole once his father was permanently employed. After finishing second grade, his family moved to a house in Lakewood, CA. While participating in Boy Scouts at St. Bernard's Catholic School, he received his Eagle Award, Silver Award and the AD Altar Dei Award. His High School years were spent at St. Anthony's in Long Beach, CA.

Phillip met his future wife, Barbara, on a blind date. They were married at her church, St. Cyprian's in Long Beach, CA in August 1960. In the beginning of their marriage, he struggled financially through various layoffs to take care of his wife and kids. Phillip, with support from his wife was able to find time to complete his Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from CSULB.

Family was always important to Phillip. He learned that from his father, Joseph, and mother, Agnes. He was the oldest of seven siblings, Carole, Larry (deceased), Tom, Dick, Sharon and Jeannine. His parents worked hard to provide financial and spiritual support to each child. Phillip continued that tradition by doing whatever was needed to support his family of four children. He worked part-time jobs when additional income was needed. He spent time with his sons in scouting and eventually became scoutmaster. In 1964, Phillip was able to move his family to the house in Long Beach, CA. To take care of his family, many additions and room remodels were completed.

Phillip also provided spiritual support for his family. He sent all four children through Catholic Elementary and High Schools. After his children grew into adults and had their own families, he became more involved in his church, St. Pancratius, by participating in RCIA as well as being an extraordinary minister and lecturer. He was also involved in programs to help the homeless. He continued to be an active member of the Knights of Columbus, just like his father and two of his brothers.

Phillip is survived by his wife, Barbara, and his four children, Greg, Mark, Daunine and Lisa along with two daughter-in-laws, Kelly and Debbie, and a son-in-law, Eric. He has seven grandchildren, Jason (wife Katy), Melissa, Renee, Patrick, Ryan (wife Ashley), Salman and Farahe. His great-grandchildren include Kian, Kenji and expecting a new great-grandson, Kiko Phillip.

His services will beat St. Pancratius Church in Lakewood, CA on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 11:00am.