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1923
2017
Himelstein
Philip Himelstein, 93 years old, passed away August 9, 2017. Philip was a clinical psychologist
and a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at El Paso. He was born in the Bronx,
NY in 1923 and graduated from James Monroe High School. After graduation, he enlisted in
the Army Air Corps and served in the European Theater in the 93rd Bomb Group. After World
War II ended he earned a B.A. degree at New York University and his PhD degree in Clinical
Psychology at the University of Texas in Austin. It was in Austin that he met his future wife
Peggy Donn. They were married at the Hillel Center in Austin in 1952, the first couple to do so.
Phil was a professor at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, New Mexico State University,
The University of Texas - El Paso, and adjutant professor at the Florida Institute of Technology.
He taught at UTEP for 20 years serving as department chair for five years. He retired as
Professor Emeritus of Psychology. He was co-editor of Readings on the Exceptional Child 1962,
1972, and Handbook of Gestalt Therapy , 1976.
He was preceded in death by his parents Isidore and Martha Himmelstein, his brother Saul who
died in Italy during World War II, his brother Sam who served in the Navy in the Pacific Theater
and his beloved wife Peggy. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Steve and Barbara
Himelstein, his daughter and son-in-law Carol and Alan Christensen, his son and
daughter-in-law Roger and Pennie Himelstein, by grandchildren Scott Himelstein, Rachel
Richards, Terry Himelstein, Cherie and Nels Christensen, Marisa, Sara, and Sophie Himelstein,
by great grandchildren Aaron David Richards, Yosef Shalom Richards, and Hannah Rose
Himelstein. He is also survived by his beloved and dear friend Helen (Deja) Hackett.
Graveside Service will be held on Sunday, August 13, 2017 at Bnai Zion Cemetery at 12:45pm.
In lieu of flowers please make contributions to Jewish War Veterans of the
U.S.A., Alzeimers Association, or Sierra Club. www.martinfuneralhomewest.com
Arrangements under the direction of Martin Funeral Home, El Paso, TX.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Martin Funeral Home West.
6 Entries
October 8, 2018
George Spilich
I had Phil for several courses at UTEP and thought he was a bright guy, excellent teacher and a skilled clinician. My career went in a different direction after UTEP but I always thought he positively affected how I treated others.
November 1, 2017
JESSICA ARELLANO
August 17, 2017
Your Colleagues and Friends
Dear Roger and family,
So sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you back here at LSC-NH Nursing. Sending love.
August 16, 2017
Bob Pena
August 13, 2017
Max Higgs
Dr. Himelstein was a wonderful man and a great psychologist. He and his wife testified in the court over which I presided. El Paso was blessed by their presence in our community.
August 12, 2017
James Devine
Phil was a special person and a dear friend. A clinical psychologist, who hired experimental psychologists and set the tone for a developing department that still ranks highly nationally. He set a tone of togetherness that made it a joy to come to work. His sense of humor was wonderful and I am sure that all who knew him have a favorite joke or quip that lasts.
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