Phillip Todd Pearlman

It is with great sorrow that I announce the death of Phillip Todd Pearlman. Phil passed away unexpectedly in his sleep Wednesday morning, February 12, 2020.

God broke the mold after Phil was born to the late Bernard Pearlman, and Sylvia (Milller) Pearlman on March 21, 1954 in Albany, NY; the younger counterpart to his big brother Howard.  As the “baby” of the family, Phil was a natural “ham”; a born performer who loved nothing more than to make those around him smile.  Comedic abilities aside, as a man of many talents, those around Phil often referred to him lovingly as the “piano man”, and let me just say, he had a voice to match.  Phil was the type of person who filled a room with his presence. He had a kind word to share with anyone who approached, and an infectiously positive attitude.  His love for humanity, and compassionate soul will be hard to surpass.   

Phil Graduated in 1976 with a BA in music education from Bradley University in Peoria Illinois and went on to become a music teacher in Rensselaer NY.  From there, his extraordinary life played out much like a Hollywood Blockbuster; from his years spent “belting” it out on Las Vegas Stages in the band Spellbound, to love at first sight when he first spotted his wife to be of 37 years Shirley (Bennett) Pearlman in the audience.  When Phil did something, he did it right; with passion and drive. As a jack of all trades, some will remember Phil as an accomplished salesman: First of fine jewelry, and later in the stone business.  One of Phil’s proudest accomplishments came with the title “dad”, he is survived by two much adored sons: Joshua W. Pearlman and Aaron J. Pearlman. His deep devotion to his family was an example to all who knew him.  The last years of Phil’s life were a beautiful circle, returning back to what he loved most: music, as he fronted yet another band, and preformed solo at retirement centers.  Inspiring community, friends, and family, that it is never too late to achieve your dreams.

In 2010, Phil proudly added the title of “Papa” to his list of accomplishments, and again in 2015, with granddaughters’ Vivan O. Pearlman and Felicity V. Pearlman.  To say he loved them and was an involved component of their lives, would be an understatement: He was champion tear wiper, connoisseur of cartoons, head jester, and pro player of dolls. Phil never missed an event or performance, and we’ll be saving him a seat.  Thank you for the humor (epic dad jokes), your song, your encouragement, and your overabundance of love. 

A funeral service will be held at The Summit Church on Friday, February 21, 2020 at 11am, followed by burial at Enumclaw Evergreen Memorial Park and a reception the church. 

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