Phillip Mann Goldberg
Loving Dad and Papa
WOLCOTT- Phillip Mann Goldberg of Wolcott passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 surrounded by his family after battling a short illness. For 48 years, he was a loving and devoted husband to Faune who was his one true love, his soul mate, his love at first sight. Phillip was predeceased by his wife Faune who passed on August 1, 2012. He was a loving and caring father to his three children. He leaves a son, Phillip H Goldberg, a daughter Paige Goldberg, a son David and his wife Brenda Goldberg, a brother Jeff Goldberg all of Wolcott and a sister Carole Goldberg-Morrissey of Naugatuck; his grandchildren Zack, Ty and Leah Goldberg, Christopher Madden, Anthony Temple, Caitlyn Colella; nephews Jason and Chris Goldberg, great nephew, Aaron Goldberg and several nieces and nephews.
Phillip was born on July 29, 1942 in Waterbury, son of the late Harry and Gertrude Goldberg. He graduated from Croft High School in Waterbury in 1960. He and Faune moved to Wolcott in 1966 to raise their family. He was co-owner of Bristol Tyre with his brother, Jeff for 23 years. During his life, he was fortunate to travel with Faune by his side on many occasions. He excelled as an athlete for many years having been scouted by the Red Sox. One would think that this would have been the highlight of his life, but, it fact, it was his role as father that gave him much more pride because he was able to share his passion of sports with both his sons, Phillip and David. Phillip loved to see his children excel in all of lifes challenges, especially with sports in hopes that this pastime would become a family tradition for his grandchildren. All who know Phillip and his family have come realize this family tradition. Family participation was a requirement by all; including Paige who learned to keep score. During these years, Faune and Paige created their own tradition by occasionally sneaking off in Phils blue corvette for their impromptu shopping excursions hurrying back to the games before they were over without being noticed in town.
After his baseball playing opportunity with the Red Sox, Phils sports career included playing for Mr. Al Damiellos Gleem Paint Team. He also traveled to Battle Creek, Michigan on seven occasions to compete in the Stan Musial World Series. He was a member of the BAW, Washington Hill Athletic Club and AOH. He was inducted into the Waterbury Sportsman in 1988 and in 1989 attended winter meetings with Frank Battelli in Florida for the AABC to keep the Mickey Mantle World Series in his local area. His vision was to give his ballplayers an opportunity to gain the experience and exposure needed to compete at all levels of baseball.
Phillips coaching career began as an Assistant Coach to Dom Gonillo at Anderson Grammar School from 1962-1966 ultimately winning the City Championships in baseball and basketball. He coached recreation basketball with Wolcott Park and Recreation for four years. He also coached Wolcott BAW and Mickey Mantle for ten years which included three league titles. He and his team were two time participants in the Mickey Mantle World Series and he was the first to bring a Wolcott team to the World Series. Among his accolades is the Outstanding Coach Award he received in 1999 from Wolcott Circle of Sports.
While many may know him as Big Phil, Coach Goldberg, and Abe, the name he so proudly carried and cherished was that of "Papa". He adored his grandchildren and took great pleasure in all of their activities. Whether it be on the mound, shooting a "three", running a touch down or watching his princess sing or dance; his grandchildren knew that Papa was in the stands. Rain, sleet or shine; nothing kept Phil from arriving thirty minutes early. He was the number one fan of all his grandchildren. He always showed a strong commitment to his wife, children and grandchildren and the love of the game.
Phillip wanted nothing but the best in life, but was a connoisseur of the good old American bargain. He looked forward to his Sunday newspaper so he could scour the advertisements for all the "deals". He orchestrated his tag sales with such enthusiasm and always had his sales strategy. He spent his free time perusing flea markets and antique shops while searching for baseball cards to add to his collection. He was a dedicated friend who enjoyed his Monday night card games, daily visits with his longtime friends at the WHAC, and lunches at the Lakewood Social Club.
Phillip Goldberg was a strong, hardworking, old fashion, family provider, who was athletic, good looking, rough around the edges, but our teddy bear at heart kind of "Mann". He was always a fighter, quitting nothing, and losing was never a thought. As tough and as strong as he was, Phillip never overcame the loss of his beloved Faune. As he experienced his last moments of life, Phillip said "Im really going to miss all of you"
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, Feb 14, 2015 at 8:00 am at St. Peter & Paul Church, 67 Southmayd Road, Waterbury followed by a Mass at 9:00 am. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Flowers can be sent directly to the church.
To leave words of comfort to the family, please visit www.woodtickmemorial.com
Service Information
Cemetery
Calvary Cemetery
2324 East Main Street
Waterbury, CT
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Visitation Saturday
February 14, 2015
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
St. Peter & Paul Church
67 Southmayd Rd.
Waterbury, CT 06705
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Service Saturday
February 14, 2015
9:00 AM
St. Peter & Paul Church
67 Southmayd Rd.
Waterbury, CT 06705
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