Philip Larry Silberman

Silberman, Philip Larry
Philip Larry Silberman passed away at his home in Scottsdale on August 29th, 2014 at the age of 72. Phil was born in Chicago, Illinois on November 29, 1941. He graduated from Iowa State University with a Master's Degree in Organic Chemistry. He moved to Scottsdale, Arizona where he became Professor Silberman at Scottsdale Community College (SCC) in 1972. Phil taught chemistry for 35 years including being an adjunct Professor at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. During his tenure at SCC he served as a Professor and Chair of the Math/Science department. He was also recognized for many teaching awards including Professor of the Year at SCC, the Best Teacher in America from Who's Who and the Master Magician Chemist- The Great Silberman. Teaching was truly his passion and he was dedicated in helping his students learn and love chemistry. Phil was an avid sports fan, enjoyed traveling, and loved his grandchildren. His greatest thrill was being the patriarch of this blended family, even more than watching his beloved (when they were winning) Chicago Bulls win their 6 championships. Anyone who knew Phil can understand the significance of this. Phil was the king of story telling and no matter what really happened, his story was way better (and in most cases a sliver of the truth). He was the master prankster and always appreciated a good joke- whether he was masterminding the prank or it was happening to him. He would do anything for a laugh including leaving this world on his ex wife's birthday. His sense of humor was one of a kind. Phil was also a dog lover (and one unlikely cat, Goldberg). Phil's dogs included Schwartz, Steinberg, Shadow, Fridge, Dusty, Tzaurus, Casey, and Lily. Phil is survived by his loving wife Karen of 34 years. Phil is predeceased by his brother Kent. Phil is lovingly remembered by his children Larry Silberman, Lisa Karlin, Kelly Zugovitiz, and Beau Gorman; his 13 grandchildren Wesley, Zack, Brandon, Nickolas, Anna, Zoe, Noah, David, Josh, Grace, Sam, Jackson, and Olivia; sister Eileen Crasko; inlaws Norman, Elliot, Frank, Jean, and Barbi, his ex wife of 44 years Ronna Silberman, as well as his nieces and nephews, extended family, students and friends. Additionally, he is survived by his dog Maxie and granddog Kaya. He is loved and missed by many- a truly great man. A memorial at ACC Banquet Facility (8849 E. Cholla St, Scottsdale, AZ 85260) is planned for Friday Sept 12, 2014 at 6PM. This will be a time to remember a great man who dedicated his life to building the youth of today and an incredible family man. Following the memorial there will be a party celebrating Phil. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Desert Labrador Rescue (please email them at desertlabrescue@gmail.com to arrange your donation).