Dr. Philip Carlson was both a medical doctor and Pastor. When Katie Quintas first considered the idea of a nonprofit to help families in medical crisis who do not qualify for government assistance, she shared her idea with her husband Silvio and Phil her pastor. Both were absolutely convicted that Here to Serve should come into existence. Phil, as a pastor and medical doctor, felt so strongly about Here to Serve he offered to be Here to Serve’s first board member to encourage Katie and Sil to move forward with their vision! Quite a commitment from a man who had a church he was pastoring, a newly-formed medical practice, and a family with four children including a special needs daughter! Phil served as our founding board member until he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer at the end of 2014. Phil went to be with the Lord in December 2015 after his cancer metastasized and it no longer could be controlled or stopped.
Both these incredible men Phil and Sil were Here to Serve and Katie Quintas’ biggest cheerleaders and their loss is devastating on so many levels. There is not one day that goes by that the huge hole in our organization, and in my heart is not felt. Phil officiated over Sil’s memorial service only for Phil to join Sil in heaven less than two years later. Hearts are shattered but not our resolve to continue the legacy these two noble men helped start. I can almost hear them both shouting not to give up, give in, or turn away from the vision they so believed in. Both committed their lives to the highest good we can achieve on earth…serving others. Rest in peace my sweet love Sil and my dear friend Phil. Heaven is a richer more magnificent place with both Phil and Sil there.
