Mr. Phanarath Siv

Mr. Phanarath Siv, 51, of Pittsfield, passed away on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at Berkshire Medical Center. He was born in Battambang, Cambodia on July 20, 1964 the son of Ok Siv and Ath Ith. Phanarath was a child survivor of the Cambodian Civil War and came to the United States in 1983. In his early years, he was a full time student and also worked full time to support his mother and sisters. He was a graduate of Pittsfield High School. Phanarath received an Associate’s Degree from Berkshire Community College and his Bachelor’s Degree from North Adams State College. Phanarath became an American Citizen in October, 1991. He was a Social Worker and for the past 19 years has worked for the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. He was awarded the Manuel Carballo Governor’s Award for his work with bilingual and bicultural families. A hard working, caring and compassionate man, he always appreciated his second chance at life and never complained as he learned to live with a new life, language and culture. He was always willing to lend a hand to others in need. He put others before himself and was always ready to sacrifice of himself for what he believed in. He loved music and was an avid guitar player. He was always grateful for the abundance and variety of food he found in America. A dedicated, family oriented man, he will be greatly missed. Besides his mother, he leaves a daughter, Jada Siv; Beloved family ward, David Leahy; five sisters, Sivsokphal Ith, Sokpha Ith, Phally Hoeung, Thyda Dos and Ratha Chau; three brothers in law, Sopha Dos, Meng Chau and Ron Hoeung; four nieces, Chanpanhra, Amanda, Mallica and Jessica; six nephews, Viraktithya, Virakpanha, Eric, Brian, Alexander and Derek. He was predeceased by a brother, Phalnara Siv of Battambang, Cambodia. Phanarath also leaves his extended family at DCF and his good friends, Brett Steinman, Joe Mack, Cassius Johnson, Marc Bogino, Bill Walsh, Edward Wilder, Chroch Meak, and Sharon Davis. Funeral Notice: A Buddhist Blessing Ceremony for Mr. Phanarath Siv will take place on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at 10 a.m. at the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North St., Pittsfield MA. Calling hours will follow the ceremony until 3 p.m. Burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Christian Center in Pittsfield, care of the Dwyer Funeral Home in his memory. DONATIONS CANNOT BE MADE ONLINE, but may be made through the Dwyer Funeral Home.

Mr. Phanarath Siv

July 20, 1964 - December 2, 2015