There are condolences waiting approval on Philip's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of Philip Charles Merker
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Philip.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Philip Charles Merker
Dr. Philip Charles Merker, 91, of Sleepy Hollow, N.Y., formerly of Rye, N.Y., passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, November 19th. Phil was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Harvey and Tillie (Lehrer) Merker on July 23, 1922. Phil graduated from Brooklyn College and received a B.S. in Pharmacy from Long Island University. He then received a PhD in Pharmacology from Purdue University, Lafayette, Indiana. He started his career doing research at Memorial Sloan Kettering and proceeded into academia at the University of Tennessee and then at Columbia University College of Pharmacy where he was the chairman of the Department of Biological Sciences. Phil continued his career as a pharmacology and toxicology consultant at Arthur D. Little in Cambridge, Massachusetts and as a senior toxicologist for Proctor and Gamble. Phil was an avid photographer, camper, and outdoorsman. He was a longtime member of the Massachusetts Audobon society. He enjoyed Judaic learning and was a active member of Bet Am Shalom synagogue. Most importantly though Phil was a beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather. He was predeceased by his brother, Jarrold Merker. Phil was married to the late Alta Irene (Hirschfeld) on August 20, 1952 . He is survived by his two children Dr. Marilyn (Robert) Merker Goldman and Dr. Edward (Elaine) Merker and his grandchildren Daniel and Rebecca Goldman, Leah Beth, Seth, Laurie, Ami, and Benjamin Merker. The funeral will be held at Bet Am Shalom Synagogue at 295 Soundview Ave. White Plains, NY 10606 at 12:30pm on Thursday, November 21 followed by burial at Sharon Gardens. Shiva will be held at 4207 Kendal Way, Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday with minyan at 7:30 pm. Shiva will continue on Monday and Tuesday at Edward and Elaine Merker's home at 20 Adams Farm Road, Katonah, N.Y. 10536 on Monday and Tuesday nights with minyan at 7:30pm. Donations can be made to Bet Am Synagogue or The Massachusetts Audobon Society.
