Steve Schilling joined Clinica Sierra Vista in 1973 after completing service with the Peace Corps in Venezuela. Photo via Clinica Sierra Vista

Steve Schilling, who spent more than 40 years leading Clinica Sierra Vista through the fight for equitable access to health care in the Central Valley, died Feb. 10 after his third battle with cancer, prompting heartfelt thanks and condolences.

Schilling, 77, spent 44 years with Bakersfield-based Clinica Sierra Vista as it became one of the nation’s largest community health networks, according to a news release.

“Steve’s impact on healthcare in our communities is immeasurable. His leadership not only expanded our reach but also deepened our commitment to providing care to those most in need,” said Dr. Olga Meave, CEO of Clinica Sierra Vista. “His belief in healthcare as a fundamental human right has been the guiding principle of our mission. His legacy will continue to inspire and direct our work.”

Schilling was born in San Francisco, raised in Mill Valley and earned a business degree from Chico State, according to his obituary.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s call to public service, he was accepted into the U.S. Peace Corps in 1971 and volunteered with an executive agency of the Venezuelan government. On completing his service in 1973, he was hired by Clinica de los Campesinos, which was soon renamed Clinica Sierra Vista. His first position was in Weedpatch, an unincorporated town south of Bakersfield.

The organization was close to bankruptcy and closure at the time, and Schilling steered Clinica Sierra Vista to viability as a chief financial officer and later CEO.

Clinica Sierra Vista plans to host a memorial service for the former leader and will invite the community to join in celebrating the positive impact he had in the Central Valley’s fight for equitable health care options.

The date for a memorial service will be announced shortly by the provider.

Clinica Sierra Vista has 45 locations, including locations in Fresno and Bakersfield, as well as many smaller outlying communities throughout the Valley. They offer services in a variety of practices ranging from general practice to mental health, optometry, dental care, behavioral health services and women’s health specialties.

For more information about Schilling’s legacy and Clinica Sierra Vista’s work in the Central Valley, visit clinicasierravista.org.