Irv Zeldman's Obituary
Irv Zeldman, a resident of Key Biscayne, passed away at home on February 12, 2017 at the age of 93. He will be greatly missed by his three children, Arlynn Greenbaum (and Bruce Rund), Diann Newman (and Arthur Ackerman), Kitt McLeod (and Ned), and his four grandchildren, Jeffrey Newman (and Amanda), Nicole Newman (and Zach Chrisco), Colin McLeod (and Dana), and Jenna McLeod. His ultimate joy was living to see his four great-grandchildren, Jack, Maya, Max, and Anna. He is survived by his brother, Marvin Zeldman, and predeceased by his sister, Evelyn Lee.
Irv was a native of Cleveland, Ohio where he excelled in sports, particularly softball and basketball. In April 2017, he will be inducted in the Cleveland Softball Hall of Fame. As a WWII veteran, Irv's unit liberated a concentration camp.
Irv served as the ITT Sheraton Senior VP and President of the Sheraton Inns, Inc. from 1969-1979 in Boston, Massachusetts. Under his leadership, the franchise division grew from less than ten to over 600 inns.
He relocated to Miami in 1979, and immediately joined his longtime friends, Sherwood Weiser and Donald Lefton, as a business partner of The Continental Companies in Coconut Grove. His easygoing nature but strong and astute construction knowledge was instrumental to the company for over 35 years, until he retired officially in December 2011. His practical no-nonsense attitude coupled by the highest standards for integrity made his advice invaluable to all who knew him. He continued as a consultant to his lifelong friend, Albert Ratner, at Forest City, into his 90's.
Irv's outgoing personality and down to earth nature made him easy to talk with, from the file room clerk on up. He knew everything about everyone and never forgot anything! He was truly one of a kind. Everyone knew that family came first, not only his but yours also.
Irv enjoyed his weekends at Gulfstream Race Track. He is best known, however, for flagrantly indulging his adoring children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A truly unforgettable man who will be missed by all those fortunate to have known him in his lifetime.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship in Irv's name has been established: FIU Foundation, Inc., with Irv Zeldman Hospitality Management Scholarship in the memo line. Mailed to: School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Attention Simone, 3000 NE 151 Street, North Miami, Florida 33181
Chapel Service 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at Levitt-Weinstein Eternal Light Funeral Service Center, 18840 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, FL 33180. Arrangements by Blasberg-Rubin-Zilbert (305) 865-2353
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