Phyllis Sugerman

Phyllis Elaine (Milstein) Sugerman passed away early Sunday morning, January 9th, following a stroke late last week. She was a proud mother, Nana and great grandmother. Phyllis loved her children and her family with her whole heart.

Phyllis was born in Denver, Colorado to Abraham Max and Rose Milstein in 1933. She had two siblings, Harriett and Norman. As a child, Phyllis was an accomplished marimba player and a solid student who attended the University of Denver where she met and eventually married her husband Charles R. (Bob). Together, Phyllis and Bob built a life that spanned seven states, South Dakota, Colorado, Utah, Connecticut, Wisconsin and Maryland, finally settling in Akron for the past 37 years after Phyllis proclaimed “no more moves!”

Phyllis and Bob filled each of their homes with love and good food, developing friends and raising their children to care deeply about their families. Nothing made Phyllis prouder than the achievements of her children and grandchildren. Whether academics, sports, music, or religion, she was always, always there to cheer them on. She was also blessed to spend time recently with her two great grandchildren. Phyllis loved her visits to Oregon every summer to visit Geoff and Max, often to pick and pit cherries from “Grandpa’s Tree”” that were turned into delicious desserts and dinners. She especially enjoyed the homemade cherry wine! She loved spending time with her daughter Lynne, visiting her in St. Louis where she made many lifelong friends. In fact, Phyllis had an uncanny ability to make lots of friends wherever she went! Her son, Irv and daughter-in-law Beth and their kids were blessed to have her as part of their lives here in Akron for so many years and for so many wonderful memories.

Phyllis and Bob turned to catering in their later years. Known as the “Sugerbakers”, their spreads of food and desserts were legendary in Akron and they successfully catered events for many years.

When Bob passed away, Phyllis was supported by an incredible group of friends in Akron. Their merry gang enjoyed meals out, movies, plays, museums and the security of great friendship, love and support. She loved her friends dearly, and they help sustain her in her final years. For them, we will always be grateful.

Left to celebrate her life are her sons Irv (Beth) and Geoff and daughter Lynne, her grandchildren Marc (Samantha), Brian, Max and Justin, and her great grandchildren, Cayla and Eli. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Bob, and many loving family members across the country.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, January 12th at 1 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery. For everyone’s health and safety there will be no shiva observed. Donations may be made to Daughters of Israel, Temple Israel, the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of your choice.