Phillip P. Toskes, M.D., January 4, 1940 – May 19, 2021. Phillip P. Toskes, M.D. was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the oldest of two boys to John and Mary Toskes. His father passed away at an early age, which made Phil the head of the house and the patriarch of his family. Phil passed away peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease on May 19, 2021, surrounded by his family. After a romance that began in high school, Phil married the love of his life, Patricia Toskes. Their 59 year marriage produced three beautiful children, Tammy Toskes, Tracey Toskes-Konopka (Nick), Steven Toskes (Paula). He is also survived by 6 grandchildren Austin and Kendall Price, Carson and Peyton Konopka, Dylan and Brandon Toskes. He also leaves behind his younger brother Richard Toskes. In 1957, Phil graduated cum laude from John Hopkins University after attending on a full scholarship. Upon graduation, he chose to continue his education and earn his M.D. from University of Maryland’s School of Medicine, graduating with honors in 1965. He attended University of Pennsylvania for his fellowship in Gastroenterology. He proudly served as a major in the U.S. Army from 1970-1973, and was stationed at Walter Reed in Washington D.C. where he dutifully served his country. Following his service, Dr. Toskes chose to start his long career at The University of Florida eventually becoming a fully tenured professor at the medical school. In addition to being a beloved professor, Phil was a world renowned gastroenterologist recognized for his passion for pancreatitis. He loved his research, his students, and his patients. He held numerous positions with the NIH, Veterans Hospital, as well as at The University of Florida. He served as head of the Gastroenterology , Hepatology and Nutrition Department, then eventually the Chief of Medicine at the
University of Florida Department of Internal Medicine. While being an integral part of the university’s medical community he earned the nickname “Big Guy” by many of his fellow colleagues. He also was President of the American Gastroenterological Association, on the American Board of Internal Medicine, American Digestive Health Foundation, President the American Pancreatic Association, and much more. He was named as one of the Best Doctors in America and on America’s Top Doctors List. Dr. Toskes had numerous grants for research with the National Institute of Health. He was involved with many drug
companies researching new medications and their effects He published over 500 scientific papers in his career inciting genius and encouragement for those who followed in his footsteps. Of all his accomplishments in medicine, Dr. Toskes was most proud of the thousands of students, residents, and fellows that he mentored throughout his illustrious career. He will be greatly missed by all, especially his family, and his adoring grandchildren who deeply loved their “Big Guy.” The family would like to express their gratitude for the many forms of condolence it has received during this difficult time. The family will host a Celebration Life ceremony at a date to be announced. We will celebrate his accomplishments in the field of Gastroenterology, his love for family, and the incredible man he was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s
Association to push forward in the fight against Alzeheimer’s and other dementia