Birth date: Jan 23, 1928 Death date: Sep 27, 2019
Philip L. Gans (91) of Clearwater, died September 27. He was born in Amsterdam, Holland where he lived until 1943. From August 1943 until January 1945 he was a prisoner in Auschwitz Concentration Camp. And from January 1945 until Read Obituary
I met Mr. Gans in college when he spoke about his Holocaust experience. After he spoke, I mentioned to him that my father was a WWII vet. He said he was so grateful to the troops. He gave me a hug, and it was one of the most special moments of my life. All at once, I could feel his pain as well as his appreciation for those who saved him. May he rest in peace.
I first heard his story in school, my Spanish teacher is his sister-in-law. She spoke so highly of him, shared his story, and gave my class bracelets titled Erase the Hate. I am not religious but his story is one i have carried with me for the past year, thank you for speaking out and may you find rest.
He came to my fivay high school around 2011 and I always kept it. You’re never forgotten. Rip beautiful brother. -Joshua
In the summer of 1973, when I was 19 years old, I worked with Phil as an operator on the Fluid Coking Unit of the Getty oil refinery in Delaware City, Delaware. Phil was a great man, a fountain of wisdom, very congenial. I learned a lot from him, about life and about Auschwitz KZ. He will be missed, but he has left a great legacy. - - David Frankel
I'm so sorry for your loss. I know Philip passed away a while ago, but I just found you through my family tree. I've sent you a message a while ago, but I'm not sure if you received it. My mother is Anita Gans, and we are distant relatives. I regret not having found your family sooner. I would like to get in touch with your family and share memories...
I was born and raised in The Netherlands, but ended up in the US because I met my husband in Israel who's originally from Cherry Hill, NJ. My name is Anouk Backal and live in Voorhees, New Jersey.
I truly hope to connect with you soon,
Again my deepest condolences,
Anouk
My phone number is 609-320-8899.
I am so sad I was not there to say goodbye. You were a huge part of my entire childhood and a huge part in my families life. I have such a long list of memories with you but so glad I was able to have you and Angelica share in my wedding day. I love you Mr Gans and will forever have you in my heart.
Deeply grateful for Phil’s message: Erase the Hate. And for all the lives he touched. :heart:
Phil was such a wonderful neighbor, friend and gentleman. We were truly blessed to have shared so many fond memories of him. He always faced his trials with strength and dignity. He will be missed by many who admired and loved him. We will continue to keep the entire family in our thoughts and prayers. With our deepest sympathy and love, Ernie and Sally Bilotto
I am so sorry for your families loss. Your father was a fighter and a survivor. Prayers of comfort during this time.
