Irv Pearlstein

Pearlstein, Irv
A true original, passed away peacefully in his home on May 2nd, 2014. Irv was born on September 9, 1916 in Davenport, Iowa to parents Charles and Ethel. After serving as a Master Sergeant in the Philippines during WWII, Irv, along with his beloved wife Annette and his parents, moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1946. They were blessed with four children: son Lynn Pearlstein (Suzan), Billie Shepard, Mountain View, CA, Patty Dillard (Randy), and Carol Echeverria; eight grandchildren: Brenden Shepard, Eden and Jordan Pearlstein, Logan Elizabeth, Chase Goodman, Kendall Preston, Jake and Grace Echeverria; and one great-grandchild: Samantha. Irv devoted his life to his family, his successful businesses, his philanthropy, and endless time and effort on behalf of innumerable causes, institutions, organizations, and The State of Israel. His crown jewel was Camp Charles Pearlstein. Founded by Irv and Annette on behalf of Congregation Beth Israel, the camp has been, and continues to be, a source of summer fun, spiritual enrichment, community pride, and personal memories for countless campers and staff over the years. It is not an exaggeration to say that Irv was one of the most loved and well respected members of the community over the last 60 years. No job was ever too great or too small. A partial list of Irv's contributions includes founding the Phoenix Federation Endowment Foundation, the Phoenix Chapter of the Weizmann Institute of Science, the Phoenix Chapter of the Anti-Defamation League, the Phoenix Israel Bonds, and the Prime Ministers Club. Additionally, Irv served on the boards of the Sun Angel Foundation, the Phoenix Jewish Federation, the Kivel Geriatric Center, Congregation Beth Israel, St. Lukes Hospital, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the National Joint Distribution Board, the Anti-Defamation League, the National United Jewish Appeal, The Weizmann Institute National Board, the Arizona Jewish Historical Society, the National Board of Israel Bonds, and the Boys and Girls Club. Irv also served as President of Congregation Beth Israel, and twice chaired the United Jewish Appeal. A spellbinding speaker, Irv could move an audience to tears, action, or to loosen their wallets for a good cause. The "Silver Fox" exuded charisma through non-stop energy and jaw-dropping good looks. Recognized for his achievements by three United States Presidents, Irv was also awarded the Medal of Honor by the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, as well as the Torch of Liberty from The Anti-Defamation League. The Phoenix Jewish News named him, "Mr. Israel" for his tireless efforts and philanthropy on behalf of the Jewish State. As if that was not enough, Irv had five holes-in-one. Too numerous to mention are the countless small generosities and favors he performed. Many people reading these words will recall how Irv touched their lives, moved their hearts, and changed them for the better. A great man will be greatly missed. Contributions in Irv's name may be made to the Southwest Chapter of the Anti-Defamation League and the Weizmann Institute of Science. Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary