In Memoriam: Phil Bobel
The CASA community is saddened to learn of the recent passing of Phil Bobel of Palo Alto, a respected leader and longtime contributor to California’s clean water sector. Phil was widely known for his dedication to public service, his collaborative spirit, and his leadership within the wastewater community. He played an active role in regional collaboration through Tri-TAC and served as Chair in the early 2000s, helping guide important discussions among Bay Area agencies. Colleagues remember Phil not only for his professional expertise, but also for his generosity, mentorship, and commitment to advancing the sector.

Phil’s impact extended far beyond the organizations he worked with directly. His leadership and thoughtful approach to problem-solving left a lasting impression on peers and helped shape the collaborative culture that continues to define California’s wastewater community today.

CASA extends its heartfelt condolences to Phil’s family, friends, and colleagues. He will be remembered fondly by many across our membership, and his legacy of leadership and service will continue to inspire those working to protect public health and the environment.

A PDF of Phil’s obituary and a local newspaper tribute can be viewed here.

 

In Memoriam: William “Bill” Teague
The CASA community mourns the passing of William “Bill” Teague, a longtime wastewater professional, dedicated public servant, and former CASA president, who passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, surrounded by his family. Bill devoted 67 years of service to protecting public health and supporting the residents of Indio and the surrounding region. Throughout his long career, Bill was known for his leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions to both his local community and California’s wastewater sector.

He began his career with the Valley Sanitary District in 1951, serving the agency until his retirement in 1985. Continuing his commitment to the community, Bill was later elected to the Valley Sanitary District Board of Directors in 1991, where he served with distinction through December 2024. CASA extends its sincere condolences to Bill’s family, friends, and colleagues as we honor his remarkable legacy of service to the clean water community.

Bill was a vital member of the community, and the following is a recap of his service, accomplishments, awards, and contributions to his community and the wastewater industry.

Valley Sanitary District (Employee)
June 6, 1951, hired as a Plant Operator
1954-1956 served as the Chief Plant Operator
1956, became District Manager (General Manager)
June 30, 1985, last day of service for VSD
34 years of employment (28 years as the General Manager)

Valley Sanitary District (Board Member)
December 6, 1991, elected as Board Member of Valley Sanitary District
Served as President from 1992-2011
December 6, 2024, final day as Board Member
33 Years of service as Board Member

East Valley Reclamation Authority (EVRA)
2016 Appointed to the Board of Directors
2016-2018 served as Vice President
2019 served as President
2020-2024 served as Treasurer

Awards:
Received Wm. D. Hatfield Award in 1960
Received CWPCA Award from both Santa Ana Basin and Colorado River Basin in 1967 for recognition of contributions to the sections
Received selection to the 5’s Society in 1969 (Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers)

Other Positions:
California Water Pollution Control Agency (CWPCA) Charter President of Colorado River Basin 1960-1961
Member of the Technical Advisory Committee to the State Water Resources Control Board (2 years)
California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA) President and Vice President (1980-1981)
Chairman of Legislative Committee CASA
Member of Managers Committee CASA
Executive Board Member CASA
Member of California Water Pollution Association
Riverside County Water Association Board of Directors
Indio Chamber of Commerce Board Member
Served on several City of Indio Committees
Coachella Valley Boys Club Board Member
Past President of CV Toastmasters 1969
CV Active 20-30 Club past President
Indian Palms Country Club Board Member
Member of the St. John’s Episcopal Church Vestry 8 years