It was accounting 101 at CSULB that I met Phil as were both trying to pick up on the same girl (which neither of us got!) But of course not a failure for me,  I totally scored - meeting Phil!   He got me thru accounting with study sessions that always included a lot of banging and drumming on the desk.  Concerts, Racquetball tournaments, seminars and parties were but a few of my favorite pass-times with my buddy!  

There were the crazy road trips to Mammoth (even if only for the day, only Phil could do that!) where he taught me how to play dashboard drums and the art of high speed lane changes!  We had a nickname for him “CMF” Crazy Mother F____!  Yes, Phil was an extremist, he could pack more in a day than any human and always with exuberance!  

Even though life, careers, raising a family  and geography got in the way , we would always pick up where we left off.   A quick visit, phone call and of course a yearly concert!  

I can’t believe you are gone Phil - all I wanted to do is call you after looking through my photo albums with memories of my always positive, ready to go, full of support, you can do anything, Friend !  

I know you are there and I will aways be grateful for our friendship!! I know one day I’ll stop crying every time I think about you!  I love you man! 

From Myself, Julie, Chelsea and Chad we send our deepest love and sympathies to all of you - we stand heartbroken along side of you XO

Our deepest condolences to all the Lachina family.  May Phil rest  in peace 

Sheila, Michael Rob &  Kevin Power 🙏🏼

On the passing of a very good man, time should allow a “short story” that describes that person and a smile- “That’s Phil. Phil had a way of pushing the right buttons,  He knew how to make someone new feel a part of his life and the church. Here is mine.

Gwen and I had not been married long and kids were at St. Paschal’s . Every parent had to have a job. What were they going to do with a trial lawyer?

One Friday night fish fry and I didn't know may people. Here comes Phil &  said "Greg, I have the perfect job for you". He took me from table to table bragging that he had the perfect job for a trial lawyer. One man said: "a lawyer in church job? One elderly woman said “ you mean this church?" Phil just smiled and went to the next table.  “I knew I was toast" and seeing  no doors close,  Phil led me to the kitchen door & I knew I was in trouble when he stopped at the kitchen sink loaded with dirty water and  I was puzzled, He announced loudly so everyone could hear:  “You are part of the church now let’s see the lawyer turn the dirty water into wine”. The whole kitchen erupted in laughter and soon the door kept opening with new glasses of wine for me. My wife had to drive me home.

That’s Phil’s way to make everyone feel wanted. He will be very missed.

I was deeply saddened to hear about Phil’s sudden passing. Phil was truly everyone’s friend and his presence graced every gathering with warmth, a smile and a hug.  Phil’s infectious smile and comforting hugs always made every moment brighter. When I remember Phil, I remember his larger than life personality that left an indelible mark on everyone.

What I personally cherish most about Phil is how he took Katie under his wing, caring for her as if she were his own daughter.  His nurturing and protective spirit was remarkable and will not be forgotten.  

One of my favorite memories was going scuba diving together with your family and then having dinner with Mimi and Phil in Lahaina ( without the kids). 

Phil will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in our hearts and minds (and his drums will continue to echo throughout the community)

Mimi, you were blessed with a wonderful man, may you continue to see his love in your children and grand children- with love, Gwen 😘

It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a great guy, he was everybody’s friend   His life ended way too soon. Our. Condolences to your family and we have fond memories from basketball with Jacob to singing to Phil’s karaoke which he allowed us  to sing even though we couldn’t carry it tune.  I remember listening to his band at I think borderline on occasion in support of a worthy cause. 

Ira and I will always be there for your family and have not wanted to bombard you with the close people and your life that have been there with you every moment. We will be attending the memorial service and I will be available to you Mimi for anything you need. It is heartbreaking once again life threw us a curveball.   With much love and sorrow💙

Ira and Patti Meiselman. 

Dear Mimi ,

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May your faith in God bring you comfort and peace. Please know we’re here for you.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Elizabeth Sanchez and Cordova’s Family 

 Phil will be deeply missed by everyone who had the joy of knowing him. He had a special way of greeting you with a hug, a smile, or a joke. I have fond memories of watching Phil play the drums while rocking out with his band.

To the Lachina family, while this loss is incredibly difficult, may his fun-loving spirit, energy, and deep pride in his family stay with you always. And, as you lean on one another, may those special moments you shared continue to light your way.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Robin