Philip was born in Edmonton, Alberta September 18, 1945. He was the first of 3 sons born to Eileen and Ted Schubert. He and his 2 brothers - Leigh & Leslie grew up on a farm just outside Edmonton. Being chosen as Valedictorian for his graduating high school class, suggests that he already had the qualities of hard work, leadership and curiosity - which were to later define his work, fascination with travel, and desire to learn other languages.
He decided to study Engineering, and attended the University of Alberta, in Edmonton - where he met Beth in 1965, a new student there, from Jamaica. They dated for a couple of years, but on graduation they both went their separate ways and lived full and interesting lives until FATE, brought them back together again.
They met in Alberta, married in Jamaica and proceeded to Brussels - where Philip had found a job working for Westinghouse Europe. Much to his delight, he was offered the opportunity to train and work as a Start-up Engineer at Nuclear Power Stations in France and Spain. Seven eventful years living and working in Brussels, France and Spain would follow.
By this time, our family was comprised of 3 children - David, Lisa and Neil.The challenges of foreigners living overseas were met head on, with preparation, planning and good humor. Returning to Canada after 8 years, Philip found a job at CIDA in Ottawa, where work involved overseeing Aid projects in some poor countries in South America, Haiti and Afghanistan. His involvement was Professional and often Personal, as he made lasting friendships with some 'real' people of the country, which remain to this day.
In keeping with his curiosity and fascination with history, he became obsessed with exploring the wilds of Labrador. A co-worker at CIDA - Jerry Kenny - introduced him to a book - "The Lure of the Labrador Wild". He was hooked, and for several years after that, Summer vacations meant elaborate planning - solo or with company, as he defied the elements, black flies, bears, darkness and the constant threat of injury or death in the middle of nowhere. Eventually he gave up on those trips, and wrote a book instead - outlining his harrowing escapes and successes.
When both he and Beth retired, they settled for yearly cruises in exotic places. Their last cruise in 2019 was to Iceland and Greenland - with 3 granddaughters in tow!
Family was always special to Philip. He looked forward to visits from any of his children or grandchildren - who were always the smartest, best looking kids on the planet! We will miss you, Dad - unique and always proud husband, father, grandfather, constant supporter and friend! As they say in Jamaica, until we meet again - WALK GOOD!
Digital Guestbook
Rachel Bériault
Pierre Marion
Bon voyage Philip. Merci de ton amitié, de ta patience, de ton aide, de ta compétence et de ton professionnalisme dans les discussions les plus difficiles. Walk good, man!
Guy Mercier
Philip était un collègue bienveillant et compétent et j’Ai bien apprécié travailler avec lui.
Darren Schemmer
I am very sad to hear this news. Philip worked with me on my first important CIDA project in Honduras and again two decades later in Haiti. He was a man of great integrity, curiosity and, often, joy. This obituary is a wonderful summary of him. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Flora Liebich
I’m so greatly saddened by the news of Philip’s passing. He was a wonderful colleague- always with a smile, helpful word ... and fascinating stories of his Labrador travels. My heartfelt sympathy to Beth and the family.
Hello Beth
Sorry we never met. I knew Phil and Gerry K from CIDA. Happier times. Robert Taylor
Paul Hitschfeld
I met Philip at CIDA. He made a presentation during a lunch hour on his exploration of Labrador. I was very impressed, and was moved enough to undertake my own physical challenge, by doing a 500 mile trek. I knew what Phil did in Labrador was much more challenging, but on my return he was very gratious and congratulated me. That impressed me a lot about him. If there are remote and unexplored areas of heaven, Phil will explore them.
Paul Hitschfeld, CIDA colleague.
Rosaline Murray
Toutes mes sympathies à la famille de Philip. Je garde un excellent souvenir de ce collègue aussi compétent que dévoué.
Ghislain St-Jacques
Philip Schubert
All my sympathy to the family. I certainly agree with his cousin's (Judy Weir) testimony and eulogy. He was also a great debater of ideas. For having worked with him for many years at CIDA, I witnessed how great a professional in his field he was. He took pleasure in sharing with me his adventures in the wild. Fascinating individual. I will miss his high spirit, intellect and humanity. He has now the infinity to explore…Have a peaceful rest my friend.
Gloria Burke
Beth, I am saddened by your loss. I saw Philip as a wonderful gentleman and hope that you will take comfort in your years together
I’m extremely saddened to hear of the passing of such an icon and work colleague. I was Philip’s admin for many years. He always said that if it was his choice, he would make me President of CIDA. We worked well together and I will remember many good souvenirs of him. His adventurous journeys were always fascinating. I will miss him dearly. Rest In Peace my adventurous traveller.