Neil August Hubert, 40, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Born on September 9, 1985 and raised in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Neil carried with him a deep connection to his Midwest roots and the values instilled in him by his parents - self-reliance, honesty, and a strong sense of right and wrong. In his own words, “I was fortunate to have two loving parents who spent time and resources to raise myself, my older sister, and my younger brother in the best way they knew how.” Growing up, Neil spent much of his time reading and drawing, and exploring various interests like horseback riding, fishing, fencing lessons, roller hockey, skateboarding, graffiti, and music.
After graduating high school, Neil studied design and illustration at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan and began his career in the advertising agencies of West Michigan. He moved to California in 2013 in pursuit of new creative opportunities, and spent six years in Los Angeles where he completed the Sign Painting program under Doc Guthrie at Los Angeles Trade Tech College then joined Radical Co-operative and helped build the small agency from scratch. Neil relocated to Ojai, California in 2019 where he began his career at Patagonia as an apparel graphic designer and, through several promotions, advanced to the role of Senior Art Director. He brought a thoughtful, disciplined approach to his craft and took great pride in the work he created. Neil was also proud of his efforts to discover and support independent and minority artists, and he generously shared his time and talents through pro bono creative work throughout his career.
Outside of his professional life, Neil continued to pursue a wide range of interests with intensity and curiosity. His love of cycling started during college in Grand Rapids and continued throughout his life. He spent time hiking in Los Padres National Forest, reading, traveling around the world, and walking his dogs Joy and Billy along the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. He took up rowing at Lake Casitas, and spent a few years in the Construction Technology program at Santa Barbara City College. Most recently you could find him in the ring at KnuckleHeadz Boxing and on the jiu jitsu mats at Gracie University. Neil built a workshop in his garage where he collected and restored tools, designed outrageous roller skating outfits, created custom t-shirts, set up a home boxing gym, and generally developed a space that reflected his hands-on, creative nature.
Neil was a loyal and dependable friend and brother, someone who showed up for others without hesitation. He was direct, honest, and unafraid to speak plainly, qualities that were grounded in a strong moral compass and a deep sense of integrity. He was also a caring and supportive uncle who took genuine interest in the lives of his nieces and nephews. He most recently shared his life in Ojai, California with his fiancé, Margie Hogue, and their dog Billy. He cherished the memory of his dog Joy, who passed away in August 2025.
Neil is survived by his parents, Fran and Bruce Hubert; his siblings, Harry Hubert and Justine (Hubert) Sesko; his fiancé, Margie Hogue; his former wife, Laura Ford; and many extended family members and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
A Celebration of Life for Neil will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at Encore Catering & Banquet Center in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Neil’s life together. Food and beverages will be available throughout the afternoon.
An additional Celebration of Life is also being planned in the Ojai, California area for later this summer. Details will be shared in the coming weeks.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.