Even during an ambulance ride from the hospital to his home, where he knew he was going to die, Howard Silverman embodied the life lesson he wanted to leave behind: “Err on the side of generosity.” That ride took place days before Mr. Silverman, 77, died of complications from lung cancer Friday, Dec. 12, in his Highland Park home. According to his daughter Lauren Cowen, he captivated the two ambulance drivers, imparting his wisdom. Afterward, Mr. Silverman made sure she emptied her wallet so he could slip them a token of thanks. The next day, when she went to her parents’ mailbox, she found a note from the drivers. It read, in part: “Your advice on being the best at what you do and create is much appreciated and has not fallen on deaf ears. Thanks again.” That capacity to “touch people in the ordinary exchanges of life,” his daughter said, had the phone ringing non-stop when customers and friends around the globe heard of his illness. Mr. Silverman, born in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood in 1926, was a self-educated, self-made success. He grew up poor and followed his father, a jewelry salesman, into the same line of work. At one time, the two designed and made women’s earrings by cutting off the backs of buttons. Mr. Silverman built a thriving costume jewelry design and import business, The Contemporary Group, based in Northbrook. He advocated generosity, his daughter said, “especially in relationships: If you have a conflict or have a debate, choose the side that’s more generous and you’ll end up OK.” Other survivors include his wife, Judy; two other daughters, Stevi Marks and Randi Lustig; and seven grandchildren. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at Congregation B’nai Torah, 2789 Oak St., Highland Park.
