Obituary of Philip F. Salathe

Philip Salathé Sr. passed away peacefully at home on September 28, 2022 at the age of 79, after many years of living with congestive heart failure. Born to Max and Alzaida Salathé in 1943, he honed his passion for philosophical debate by sparring with his two older brothers. While attending Attleboro High School he met the love of his life, Diane, and their marriage of 58 years produced their children Elise, Eileen, Greta, Philip Jr., Ursula (d. 1979), and Peter. A graduate of Brown University, he was a genuine Renaissance man, interested in and knowledgeable about every conceivable topic, and spoke fluent French and conversational Arabic. Never defined by his career, in many ways his true life's work was being a father, grandfather, and uncle to his younger relatives. Engaging him in conversation was an invitation to hours of wordplay, literary allusions, and playful debate, but beneath his good-naturedly contrarian exterior was the heart of a compassionate, patient man who quietly worked to help those in need. He was an accomplished guitarist, loved independent and foreign films, and had an appreciation for the entire spectrum of food and drink, from the fanciest to the humblest. Born with a congenital heart condition, he maintained a philosophical, upbeat attitude even in the face of an endless series of health setbacks, as he hadn't expected to live past his forties. He often noted that his retirement years were among the happiest of his life, since he could spend his days reading, listening to music, and learning about anything that interested him. In addition to his wife Diane and children, he is survived by grandchildren Ursula, Mitchell, Elias, Max, Samantha, Nicholas, and Romana; brothers Karl and Eric; and numerous nieces and nephews. His family and friends will hold a private Celebration of Life on the afternoon of October 14 at the home of his daughter Eileen. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana.