Philip Ernest Fluvog M.D.

Philip Ernest FLUVOG M.D. May 26, 1921 ~ July 28, 2010 Philip (Phil) Ernest Fluvog, passed away July 28 in his Seattle home. He is greatly missed by his wife Esther, children Joanne, Brent, Eric, Craig, and Jill; three grandchildren, John Philip Fluvog, Stephen Johnson, and Beth Johnson; brother Dr. James Fluvog (Lee); and many friends. Born in Barton, North Dakota, Phil spent his early years on the family's rural farm. He left to join the Army Air Corps and was a World War II flight instructor in Bakersfield, California. Afterhis career in the service he returned to school to graduate from the University of California, Berkeley, the University of North Dakota Medical College, and the University of Washington Medical School. He touched many lives during his career as a general and thoracic surgeon in Seattle. After retiring Phil pursued new interests, earning another educational certificate, learning American Sign Language, and enjoying several years serving as Santa on 6th and Pine. Phil had a passion for adventure throughout his life. He loved flying and frequently took Esther with him and many times they had the children - first Joanne, then Brent - in the backseat. That same spirit led him to build a foundation on a vacant piece of land off Genesee and move a home to that location. He loved nature and he and Esther hiked Mount Si on many Wednesdays. This interest resulted in he, Esther, and the four oldest children (then ages 10 - 17) reaching the summit of Mount Rainier in September, 1963. The family also went up to 'the Pass' for weekly ski trips for many years. Phil is remembered for donning a swimsuit whenever the sun was out on the mountain and was, fortunately, a very good skier. While his interests were far-reaching, all were surpassed by his love for family, and his face lit up at the sight of his grandkids, to whom he offered interesting advice with his incredible sense of humor. As requested by Phil, no public service will be held.