Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of Ted Sirlin, who passed away on July 31, 2009. The Professional Photographers of Sacramento Valley (PPSV) released an announcement about his passing, calling it "Death of a Pioneer." How true that statement is.
Ted, M.Photog.Cr.Hon.M.Photog., started his business in 1946 and became a leader in the industry and in photographic associations. He was a past president for both Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and PPSV. His award-winning accomplishments can be seen in his degrees (Master of Photography, Photographic Craftsman, and Honorary Master of Photography)...but mostly in the images and memories he leaves behind.
Following is the obituary published in the The Sacramento Bee:
Sirlin, Theodore "Ted"
Born February 28, 1923 in New York City, New York and passed away in Carmichael, California on July 31, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 49 years Theda Sirlin; children Janet Sirlin Roberts, Sue Sirlin and David Sirlin; granddaughter Michelle Roberts; sisters Doris and Shirley; and his pet dog Coco.
He was preceded in death by his parents Soloman and Anna Sirlin; brothers Ben and Joe and sister Lil.
He attended the Signal Corp Photographic School and the Pennsylvania Military College where he received a 2 year Engineering degree. He served in WWII in the Philippines as a photographer.
He went on to open Sirlin Studios in Sacramento in 1946 at the age of 23, with a goal to capture and reflect the beauty, strength and sensitivity of the subjects he photographed. Ted continued to run the studio from his bed when he became bed-bound. The studio remains open to this day.
Friends are welcome for a memorial service at East Lawn Mortuary, 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento on Thursday, August 6, 2009 at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the SSPCA or to the Sutter Roseville Hospice.
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