Philip J. Sylvestro passed away on April 10, 2021 at the age of 79, in Tradition, Florida after a short illness. Born to the late Philip A. Sylvestro and Mary (Marchoine) Sylvestro on October 21, 1941, Philip was raised in New Britain, CT. He spent his younger years playing football in high school and later at Morehead State College, in Morehead, Kentucky. After receiving his degree, he worked at Sheehan High School, in Wallingford, CT, where he passionately taught AP history. An avid educator, Philip served in positions for the National Education Association and mentored many students throughout his over 30-year career.
After moving to Rocky Hill in 1967, he raised his children and actively served the community in many capacities, including the Planning and Zoning committee and Town Council. He also served as Deputy Mayor. Recognizing the importance of education and community, he was instrumental in planning the Rocky Hill High School renovations and newly constructed Town Hall.
Philip was a passionate clay target shooter and spent many years on the line where he perfected not only his score but his relationship with his son and friends. He was involved in many clubs, including Rockville Fish & Game, Hartford Gun Club, Bristol Fish & Game, Wolcott Land Owners Assoc., Guilford Sportsman Club, and the Branford Gun Club. He actively supported the Amateur Trapshooting Association and also held positions within the Connecticut Trapshooting Association. The largest Connecticut State Trap Shoot in history was executed under his leadership. In 2012, Philip was inducted into the CTA Hall of Fame.
He was predeceased by his loving wife, Diane Sylvestro. He is survived by his longtime partner Linda Gostyla, his daughter Deborah Pane and her husband Thomas, his son Mark Sylvestro and his wife Heather, and his grandchildren, Andrew Philip Pane, Norah Diane, and William Robert Sylvestro. He also leaves his brother and friend, Barry Sylvestro, and his wife Janet, and three nieces, Vicki, Jaclyn, and Kelsey, and their families for whom he held a special place in his heart. He will also be greatly missed by Linda’s children, Tracy Gostyla and Kim Gostyla, and Linda’s grandchildren, Danica, Wyatt, and Jeremy who were like his own.
Philip was a good friend, active listener, and devoted man. His presence will be greatly missed by his family and many friends who have known him during his meaningful lifetime.
The family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, April 25, 2021 from 1-3 p.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield, CT. So loved ones will be safe, Covid safety regulations will be followed. Burial at Rose Hill Memorial Park, Rocky Hill, will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 20 Batterson Park Rd # 302, Farmington, CT 06032. For online espressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com.
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