Philip Gilbert Berman, age 89, passed away Sept. 18 at home surrounded by family. Preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Elsa Berman, he was the beloved husband of Toby Berman; loving father of Mitchell (Andrea) Berman, Joseph (Eve) Berman, Anne Marill, Morris (Christie) Berman; brother of Byron (Ellen) Berman; grandfather of Josh (Alison), Rachel (Adam), Sedona (Tavin), Maren, Hannah, Elena, Ren and Will and great-grandfather of Eli, Elsie and Blake.
In 1958, Phil earned his bachelor of engineering science degree in chemical engineering from The Johns Hopkins University. In 1965, he earned his master of science degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Maryland. In 1972, Phil was elected to the University of Maryland chapter of Sigma Xi. In 1975, he earned his doctor of philosophy degree also from the University of Maryland.
From 1966 until he retired in 1993, Phil worked for the Defense Intelligence Agency. During his time with DIA, he received numerous awards and recognitions including:
· Studies in Intelligence for his contribution to Literature of Intelligence
· Exceptional support to the Department of Defense Science and Technical Intelligence Programs
· Contributions to the U.S. Department of Energy Operation Morning Light
· Contributions to the Nuclear Intelligence Community
· Recognition of Service during the cold war period in promoting peace and stability for the United States
After Phil retired from the government, he began substitute teaching at the Jewish Day School as well as tutoring students one on one. Phil’s many students believed he knew everything about everything and was probably the smartest person in their world!
Phil was also deeply involved in Beth Sholom Congregation and Talmud Torah community. No job that the shule needed was too big or too small for Phil to tackle.
· 1966-69 Secretary of the Board of Directors
· 1970-77 Chairman of the Talmud Torah Committee
· 1974 Beth Sholom Merit Award winner
· Active member of the Beth Sholom Chevra Kadisha
· Chairman of the Beth Sholom Cemetery Committee
Phil was the “go to” person for anyone and everyone (family, friend, community member, acquaintance) who needed anything. He always had the tools, know how and wherewithal to help anyone who asked.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Beth Sholom Congregation and Talmud Torah, the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation or a charity of your choice. Services entrusted to Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Goldberg Funeral Care.