Obituary

Philip Epstein was an incredible individual. His perseverance through his almost 83 years of life was an inspiration for our entire family. Whenever I had a challenging situation and started to feel sorry for myself, I thought of Philip and his challenges and how he fought through his struggles. We will miss you Phillip but our memories of you will be everlasting. With all our love Josh, Storm, Mary & Ralph

As a teenagers visiting our uncle’s condo next to the Brooklyn Bridge, we remember thinking how cool it was—like something straight out of a 1980s movie. Phil was always so proud to show us his neighborhood. He would take us to his favorite Chinese restaurant where they knew his name and all his favorite dishes. He was a world traveler and a professional who lived life on his own terms with determination and pride. It feels especially fitting to honor him during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a reminder of the barriers he broke and the path he paved.

Over the past couple of years, after visiting him with my mom in NYC, Philip and I communicated more as if no time had passed. We slipped into our old banter, ribbing each other about our favorite football, baseball, or basketball teams. It would sometimes get heated, but always good-natured. We would make $1 bets on which of our teams would have a better record, though no money changed hands. If he won, he would tell me to give it to our daughters. I am filled with sadness and solace; however, being able to see him in the hospital on October 7th and saying I loved him and that he is in good hands will forever be a cherished, albeit sad, memory.

My amazing younger brother was my hero he was physically challenged from birth yet he preserved by sheer grit and humor Philip’s courage will remain his Legacy Your loving sister Ileane Mindel