Lewis J. Silvers
Jan. 12, 1929-Nov. 7, 2021
Palo Alto, California
Lewis J. Silvers, Jr. 92, died peacefully at home with friends by his side, November 7, 2021. Lewis, affectionately known as Lew or Luigi, was born and raised in the Bronx. He graduated from the Ethical Culture Fieldston School in 1946 and Bard College in 1950 as an English major. He earned an MA in Elementary and Art Education at New York University and continued his education at Stanford University. After briefly teaching in New Jersey and in San Diego, Lew settled in Palo Alto, California. He taught 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade classes for 28 years in the Palo Alto Unified School District. Lew’s life was greatly enriched by his relationships with his students, many of whom kept in touch over the years.
Lew also studied at the Art Students League and the Pacific Art League of Palo Alto and was an exceedingly talented and prolific artist. He painted in a post-impressionist style with a focus on the colorful Fauve movement. He worked in pastels, watercolor and gouache acrylic paints. He exhibited in Palo Alto and New York City. In addition to his love of painting, Lew had a passion for reading, the opera, the theater and film. Lew especially liked films featuring Jeanette MacDonald. He also had a special affection for cats, squirrels and elephants. Lew’s passion for the arts, nurturing teaching style, keen intellect and sardonic wit will truly be missed by all who knew him. Lewis is survived by his twin brother, Willys, sister Myra, niece Deborah, and nephew Kent.
Donations may be made in the memory of Lewis J. Silvers to: - Palo Alto Arts Center - Boys Hope Girls Hope - Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA - World Wildlife Fund - or the charity of your choice
Condolences will be forwarded to Lew's family on The East Coast.
Per Luigi’s request, there are no scheduled services. You may visit his legacy art website www.lewsilvers.com where his blog states “I’ve always believed that I have a song to sing. And I sing it in color.”
Tags: arts/media, teacher/educator, public service
