Phillip Arth

Phillip "Phil" Arth

January 30, 1939 - January 20, 2025

Resident of Moraga

Phillip "Phil" Arth, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and community servant, passed away peacefully in Moraga, California, the 20th of January of 2025. He was born in California and moved frequently in his youth and ended his high school years in Tehran, Iran, where he completed high school while his father served as a U.S. Economic Advisor. He returned to the United States and graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, earning a degree that would set him on a path to become a successful Certified Public Accountant.

In the 1960s, Phil and his wife, Gretchen, settled in Moraga, where they raised their family and built a life rooted in family, friends, work, and service. His natural aptitude for accounting inspired him to open his own tax practice, which quickly flourished thanks to his reputation for ingenuity, meticulous attention to detail, and genuine concern for his clients' well-being.

Beyond his profession, Phil and Gretchen cultivated a passion for travel, exploring the far reaches of the globe with an insatiable curiosity for new cultures and experiences. After retiring, he channeled his commitment to service into local government, proudly serving as a Town Council Member. In this role, he worked tirelessly to ensure the community he loved continued to thrive, always striving to foster unity and progress.

Phil was known for his many enthusiasms, none more unique than his passion for collecting Art Deco cocktail shakers. He collected these treasured pieces, each one a testament to his eye for design and appreciation for the artistry of bygone eras.

Phil's greatest joy was his family, who will forever cherish the memories of his humor, wit, and unwavering support. He is survived by his loving wife, Gretchen, and their three children: Jessica Devers (Bill), Mike Arth (Josie), and Jim Arth (Susie). He took immense pride in his grandchildren-Jonathan Arth, Megan Arth Schmeling, Billy Devers, Delaney Arth, Carolyn Devers, Andrew Arth, Joseph Arth, and Matthew Arth-each of whom carries forward a piece of his legacy. Phil also leaves behind his siblings: Freddie Rabuazzo (Sandy), Susie Arth, Allison Arth, and Emily Arth.

Phil Arth's life was one of devotion to family, dedication to professional excellence, and service to his community. He will be profoundly missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date, allowing friends and family to come together in remembrance of this one-of-a-kind man. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to a local community organization or charity of one's choice.