Philip “Doctor Phil” Schiff 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2015 at Manchester Manor. Born in Camden NJ, long time resident of Manchester and most currently living in Tolland CT.
He was a well-respected optometrist for many years, in private practice in East Hartford, as well as servicing many nursing homes in the area. He enjoyed boating, watching boxing, going to hockey games, fishing, competitive pistol shooting and riding his motorcycle. He served many rolls, some of which were long time East Hartford Rotary Member, umpire of Manchester Little League, President of PTA of Washington School in previous years, His good nature and smile was infectious, making people around him feel special. He is constantly referred to as a “gentle soul”. He truly loved his family and friends.
He is survived by his longtime partner Janet Enes and her son Michael and wife Kristine Enes, and grandchildren Leah and Michael. His daughter Deb Schiff of NJ, his son William Schiff and wife Julia and granddaughters Erin, Tori and Lauren of AZ. His surviving sister Joan Gelman of NJ and many nieces and nephews.
Phil’s family extends a special thanks to his caregivers at Manchester Manor.
A memorial service will be held at Weinstein Mortuary 640 Farmington Avenue Hartford CT on Wednesday March 25, 2015 promptly at 3:30 PM. For further information, directions or to sign the guest book for Philip Schiff, please visit online www.weinsteinmortuary.com/funerals.cfm
Phil ~ I hope you are "on the boat" with a meatball sandwich in your hand, sun on your face and jelly beans in your pocket! You were so loved, will so be missed and were one of the finest human beings on this planet. Longboat will never be the same....
From: Evelyn and Michael Thayer
From South Windsor, Connecticut
Posted On: March 23, 2015
with your great sense of humor there are so many memories but my favorite was the time you ate a cupcake made by someone and later she told you that she had to refrost them because the cat ate the frosting off all the cupcakes. Rest in peace, Phil, I will smile thinking of all the wonderful times with you and Janet. Evelyn and Mike Thayer
From: Alan Klibanoff
From Paradise Valley, AZ
Posted On: March 24, 2015
Please accept our condolences.
Phil was such an amazing person and will live on in our memories forever.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Klibanoff Family
From: Denise Faimon
From Cherry Hill, NJ
Posted On: March 26, 2015
Uncle Phil, an incredibly, wonderful, happy, smiling person will be missed. Deb, Bill, Janet you are all in my thoughts.
From: Celia McAuley
From Manchester, Connecticut
Posted On: March 24, 2015
I will always remember how Dr Schiff always made a shy teenager feel welcome and at home whenever I was at their house. He gave me the nickname "trouble" and even years later when I would see him in his office for a checkup, he would still call me Trouble. When I think of him I picture him smiling and joking with everyone. He had an easygoing spirit. My deepest sympathies to his family, especially to my friend, Deb.
From: Hal Ostrom
From Essex, CT
Posted On: March 24, 2015
Phil was my Optometrist and he was the reason I entered this profession. He will be missed.
From: MARYLEE RICCIO
From ROCKY HILL, Connecticut
Posted On: March 24, 2015
Phil ~ I hope you are "on the boat" meatball sandwich in hand, sun on your face and jelly beans in your pocket. I will truly miss you and think of you as one of the kindest people on this planet. Thank you for all the laughter and friendship we shared Phil and you will never be forgotten. Longboat won't be the same without you......
From: Margaret Ann Mathis RSM
From Newington, CT
Posted On: March 25, 2015
Dr. Phil will be remembered by me for his generous time ministering to the residents in health care facilities, providing kind and gentle care. I thank you for your time given to our Sisters at Mercyknoll and at Saint Mary Home, your service was"priceless". Sister Margaret Ann
From: Frederick Moffa,OD
From Granby, CT
Posted On: March 25, 2015
Dr. Schiff was my eye doctor growing up and was the reason I became a doctor of optometry. Later on I had the pleasure of working with him at a nuring home services provider. He was great as a clinician and always made the patient comfortable.
I mention him often to my patients when they ask, why did you choose optometry, so his memory will live on.
From: Thomas M. Hadfield
From Waunakee, WI
Posted On: March 25, 2015
Our thoughts and Prayer's go out to all the Family. May fond memories help to heal the loss. Billy and Julia: The time we spent with Phil at your Wedding gave us a chance to see what a fun person he was. Hugs to you all. Love you, Tom and Lori.
From: Sandi Schneider
From New York, New York
Posted On: March 25, 2015
To Bill & Deb: Sandi & Harvey mourn along with you. We are so sorry for your loss.
From: Dan Russell
From East Hartford, CT
Posted On: March 25, 2015
I first met Phil when I joined the East Hartford Rotary Club--I think 42 years ago. I always enjoyed him and his sense of humor. I hope you all will cherish you memories.
