Philip Arthur Jarvis

The family of Philip Jarvis sadly announces that Mr. Jarvis passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 as the result of a sudden stroke. Phil was surrounded by his family at the end as he was in life. Phil is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Donna (née Gronquist), his children Laurent Jarvis, Renée (Richard) Binns, Bruce (Lorna) Jarvis, and Michelle Jarvis, his grandchildren Sarah Binns, Amy Halom, Rebekah Binns, Jessica Jarvis, Oli Wyatt, Victor Jarvis, Allegra Wyatt, and Corinne Jarvis. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren.

Phil was born in Port Angeles, Washington as the eldest child in a family of four children, where his parents owned a motel. After graduating from Roosevelt High school in Port Angeles he enlisted in the US Navy. He was primarily stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, and proud of his “overseas bonus,” as Alaska was not yet a state. Phil was honorably discharged in 1953 and concluded his military experience as an Airman, Aerographer's Mate 3rd class.

Making good use of the GI Bill, Phil enrolled at the University of Portland and received a Bachelor’s degree in engineering. While attending university, Phil met Donna Faye Gronquist of Lebanon, OR who was pursuing her studies at Marylhurst College. They married in 1956. In 1966, after welcoming his fourth child with Donna, he earned a Master’s of Science in mechanical engineering from Oregon State University. Phil worked as an engineer all of his professional life as a project, development, and design engineer in various companies such as GAF Corporation, Omark Industries, Electronic Specialty Company, T.R. Miles Consulting, Tektronix, and Williams Controls.

While working at Electronic Specialty Company Phil received a special commendation from the Navy for his significant contribution to the design of the NF 6010B “Instant Free Gyro” guidance system used in the Navy’s Mark 46 Torpedo. He retired from professional life in 1998.

Phil was a devoted Catholic and an active member of and volunteer for the Knights of Columbus. Throughout his life he volunteered through the church as well as in the community. He loved music, was a member of the church choir, and played the organ with gusto. He enjoyed technology, his computer programs, and tinkering with gadgets. He was also an avid skier and an occasional but good-natured golfer.

Services will be held after the first of the year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities, an organization deeply meaningful to Phil.