Philip “Phil” Valenzuela passed away on September 17th, 2011, following an extended illness and hospitalization. His loving family and close friends were by his side. Phil recently celebrated his 66th birthday.
Phil was born in Mendota, CA and resided in Gilroy with his family since 1984. He served with the U.S. Army as a Helicopter Crew Chief stationed in Germany. He was married to Karin Valenzuela for nearly 38 years. Phil’s family includes daughter Maria, married to Patrick Cuevas, daughter Victoria, married to Aaron White, and daughter Mimi. Phil has five grandchildren, Mateo (9), Daron (11), Mia (6), Eva(5) and Leila (3).
Philip served as the City of Gilroy Human Resources Director for a period of approximately 10 years where he specialized in Personnel Management, Risk Management and Employee Benefits. He also served on the City Emergency Response Team. Additionally, he served as a Board Member for the Center for Training Coordination (CTC) in San Jose.
Subsequent to his employment with the City of Gilroy, Philip was employed at the Santa Clara County Valley Water District for approximately eight years. During that period, he served in the employee benefits and risk management functions. He recently retired from that position.
Phil enjoyed physical work-outs, running, family gatherings and spending time with his friends. He was an avid fan of the Star Trek series and enjoyed collecting items from that series. In addition, he frequently attended car and motorcycle races at Laguna Seca Raceway. But above all else, Grandpa Phil was devoted and thoroughly enjoyed the times he spent with his grandchildren at special gatherings at his home. Philip traveled frequently with his wife, Karin, but always longed to return to his grandchildren.
After an extended illness period in late 2010, Phil was diagnosed early this year with rare autoimmune disease HLH or Hemophagocytic Lynphohistiocytosis. One of Phil’s last wishes was that his experience with this rare disease could contribute to the care of others with this disease and finding a cure for HLH. In this regard, friends are encouraged to participate in blood drives whenever possible.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 23, 2001, at 3:00 P.M. at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 4th Street, Gilroy, CA.
Condolences may be made at www.HabingFamilyFuneralHome.com
