Abner Silver of Jim’s Steaks Dies

Photo by Jeff Fusco

Abner Silver, the owner of Jim’s Steaks on South Street passed away today at age 79. Silver co-owned Jim’s with Bill Proetto since the South Street location opened in the mid-seventies. Silver became the sole owner when Proetto passed in 2011.

Silver, a jazz buff, was responsible for setting up Jim’s first cheesesteak eating stunt back in 1978, when Lynda Kuerth devoured 11 steak sandwiches. Silver was also the founder of Abner’s Steaks in University City.

Silver had suffered from Alzheimers in recent years but passed peacefully today.

Today we lost one of our greats. Philly icon Abner Silver owner of Jim's Steaks South St. peacefully passed away due to Alzheimer's.

— Jim's South St (@JimsSouthStreet) January 13, 2015

UPDATE: Read Abner Silver’s death notice and memorial service plans.