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Abraham Holtzman Obituary
His surviving family includes his wife of 62 years, Sylvia Hochfield Holtzman; three sons, Joshua and wife, Janet of Garner, Adam and wife, Maria of Raleigh, and Seth and wife, Lisa of Salisbury; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and his sister, Naomi Golding and husband, Martin of Durham.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hebrew Cemetery in Raleigh on 450 N. State Street.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Or, 5315 Creedmoor Road.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Wake County, 1300 St. Mary’s Street, Suite 400 or the Abraham Holtzman Political Policy Forum at N.C. State (CHASS Development Office, NC State University, P.O. Box 7011, Raleigh, NC 27695-7011).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Abraham Holtzman
Sponsored by Harry Johnson, Pupil 1975-76.
Avigdor Goren
February 1, 2010
I can't believe it that Abe is gone! With whom else could I discuss, in details, such issues as the present political situation in Israel? I'll miss him a lot! Please accept Lynn's and my condolences for your loss.
David Carlone
January 24, 2010
I have thought often of Professor Holtzman since he taught me in the late 80s and early 90s. He was one of the best teachers I ever had—knowledgeable, demanding, compassionate, and inspiring.
I recall him telling us, on the first day of one of his courses, “I have an unlimited supply of A’s, and an unlimited supply of F’s. I’ll give you what you earn!” Wow! That brought out the best in me!
Now a college professor myself, I believe that if I can emulate even a bit of what he did for me and so many others, I will have had some success with my own students.
To the Holtzman family, I express my deep condolences. May you find comfort knowing that Professor Holtzman’s legacy lives on in so many people, throughout North Carolina and beyond.
Joseph Mangano
January 24, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was an outstanding teacher, a warm and engaging man, who sincerely cared about students. After I took one of his classes, he used to stop and chat with me when we passed in the hall.
He wasn't my official advisor, but became someone even more important. When I came to him with my idea to enter public administration, he pointed out that there are various types of public administration, including a fine public health administration program at UNC-CH. From there, I inquired about UNC, applied, was accepted, received my masters degree, and am still in the public health field many years later.
In the mid-1990s, I wrote a history book, as I recuperated from a long illness. After the book was published, I sent him a copy, and he responded with a letter, remembering me after nearly 20 years, and wishing me well.
I will always remember him. My kind regards to Dr. Holtzman's family at this time.
Joseph Mangano '76
January 23, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my Advisor from 1977-81. He made a difference for me and so many other students. He always had a focus to recognize the rights and opinions of others (somewhat like the Supreme Court - "No one is allowed to speak twice until everyone has spoken once." His wit, knowledge and leadership will be remembered. Don Dockery (Los Angeles, CA)
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Billy Dal Maddalon
January 23, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my advisor, my mentor, my adversary and my friend. He was single handedly the reason I ended up choosing State over Carolina. When I was selected to the Legislative Internship program and supervised by him, I had no idea how much that experience and his constant words of constructive criticism would influence my life.
My favorite memory was when he agreed to be initiated into my fraternity and "see what the 'frat' thing was all about". Afterwards, he would tell me he was surprised how beautiful and moving the initiation was. And when I told him we were now brothers, he quickly replied, "Yes, but don't expect any favors with your grades".
"Well done Thy good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things. I shall make The a ruler over many things."
This is a loss and he will certainly be missed!
Richard Suggs
January 23, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my advisor and mentor through all my years at NC State. My life would be much different now without his wise guidance.He was a great man and I shall never forget him.
Jessica Jameson
January 23, 2010
Adam and Maria, I have been thinking of you since I saw this as I know how close it is to Hannah's Bat Mitzvah. I am sorry I never had a chance to meet your father, he sounds like a wonderful teacher and mentor. Best wishes at this difficult time.
Joseph Gaitens
January 22, 2010
Sincerest prayers and deepest symphathies to your family. Dr. Holtzman was a terrific teacher -- englightening, tough, fair and always quick with the wit. He challenged all of us to think and reach deeper within ourselves. In his class, the answer was never on the surface -- it was always several layers down. And when you found it, it was like a lightbulb went off -- illuminating Dr. Holtzman's smiling, "Yep, now you've got it!" smile in the process. He was cherised. And he will be missed.
Sarah Hyatt
January 21, 2010
Dr. Holtzman's polisci 201 was the first class I walked into as a terrified freshman in 1967. He tolerated no shyness and insisted that each student could and should think things through and be able to voice reasoned opinions. He loved a good debate, and he drew out of me qualities I didn't know I had. At one point when I was participating in a heated class discussion (class participation was 10% of the grade - so I made myself speak up!) a woman in front of me told Dr. Holtzman that I needed to join her a League of Women Voters meeting to get another perspective on the issue. Dr. Holtzman smiled and told her, "No, what she needs is a date who will take her out and discuss federalism!" At that point one of the members of the football team sitting on the front row volunteered to do just that. His humor always came through at the right time.
Later, after I married, he'd run into my father-in-law on campus and he'd always ask where I was and how things were going with me. What a very special man as well as a top-notch professor!
My condolences to your family, but it must be comforting to know how many lives he touched and blessed.
sheree nicholl
January 21, 2010
I remember my first and favorite prof and NCSU, Dr. Holtzman--PS 101, scared to death--grades came out, 2 a's, 2 b's, rest c's and d's--to my amazement, i was an A--he inspired me to do my best-encouraged and challenged me, as he did all of his students--such a wonderful man and educator--the ultimate teacher,
January 21, 2010
I took one of Dr. Holtzman's PS classes as an elective, and ended up graduating in 1976 with PS as my major, in large part due to the interest and energy that he generated in that classroom. He was such a wonderful person and teacher. Kind and caring, respectful of each student as an individual, but so intellectually sharp and precise and engaging. Time flew by in his classes. I wished many times that all my professors measured up to Dr. Holtzman's qualities, but few could. He was such an asset to the university and to his profession as a whole. He was exactly what a college professor should be.
Please accept my condolences for your great loss.
Mac Cameron
District Court Judge
Richlands, NC
Robert Evans
January 21, 2010
He was the best professor I ever had and was also a very good man.
James Hale
January 21, 2010
I don't remember many of my professors from the early 1970's, but I definitely remember Dr. Holtzman. He was a great inspiration to many of us. He will be missed.
Michael Key
January 20, 2010
I regret not seeing Dr. Holtzman one more time. I remember the look and the little talk he gave me after I called him a King Maker. One talk, "Don't Touch My Checkers", keeps me playing the game. Working in state government, his lessons stay fresh on my mind. But I think I learned more from his talks than work in class. In our first meeting he called me a Dixiecrat. Being the only young Republican in many classes, he may have meant Dixiebrat. Whatever the purpose, he made me think; and he made me earn my way. Thanks for his time....he will be missed, but not forgotten. NCSU 1981
January 20, 2010
I am so glad to receive this notice. I graduated in 1988 and will never forget Dr. Holtzman. I actually had him as a couselor and will never forget his words of wisdom. I hope he was able to enjoy his later years. He will never be forgotten.
Charles Rambeau, Jr.
January 20, 2010
Thank you Dr. Holtzman for challenging me to be a better thinker. I will miss you and your questions. You taught so many of us to make a difference. NC State and the state of North Carolina has lost a true hero.
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was a memorable professor for me, although I was in only one class taught by him. Just this past Saturday I was sharing stories about his class with another former student. His examinations prepared me for law school more than any other undergraduate class. He was always so well respected by me and everyone that knew him. I am sure he will be sorely missed. My condolences to the family. I hope they will be able to celebrate his life well lived and the postive impact he had on so many people. Chip Kyles, NCSU Class of 1991.
Steve Finch
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my political science advisor from 1981-1984. A patient man for sure, I probably contributed to his gray hair, but I made it. Dr. Holtzman befriended many students over the years, my best to the Holtzman family.
NCSU Class of 84
Bruce Tingle
January 20, 2010
To the Family-
Professor Abe was tough as nails but made the classes lively and discussions were spirited for the Public Administration students such as myself. I am a better person for having him as a mentor.
Bruce Tingle
Emerald Isle, NC
Judge Ron Spivey
January 20, 2010
To the Family of Dr. Holtzman:
I've very sorry to hear of your loss. Dr. Holtzman was one of the most memorable professors that I had while at NC State. He instilled a process of thinking and analysis that helped prepare many of us for law school and other endeavors. The entire NC State family is fortunate that you shared this wonderful and learned man with us for so many years. He touched the lives of so many students and future leaders for generations at NC State. He left an indelible mark, and will always be remembered for his contribution. He made our campus and this world a better place.
Sincerely,
Ron Spivey '82 Political Science
NC Superior Court Judge
Winston-Salem, NC
William Jones
January 20, 2010
I have such sadness to hear of Dr. Holtman's death. I took several Political Science classes from him in the mid-60's and I have always felt he was the best professor I had at NC State. My career has been in public administration and I owe him a great deal for his inspiration. Rest well my mentor. Bill Jones (Ocean City, MD)
Bill Sams
January 20, 2010
To the Holtzman family;
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. As a Political Science major in the class of 1971, Professor Holtzman was an inspriation, a source of great wisdom and common sense to all his students. He was easily the most influential teacher that I had at NCS. His classes were exciting and challenging. The academic world and NC State have lost a great man.
Alan Pate
January 20, 2010
Abe Holtzman was a great, great teacher, and I am proud to have made his acquaintance. His good humor was so refreshing for a university "professor". He will be missed, but he will be remembered as a wonderful resource and a credit to his field and to NC State.
Alan Pate, B.A. polital science, 1974 and M.P.A., 1976
January 20, 2010
I, like many others studied under Dr. Holtzman during my time at N.C. State from 1980-85. He was my favorite professor, by far, and I always looked forward to debating the issues with him in the classroom. I am very sorry for the loss to his family, and I believe NCSU has lost one of their all time great teachers and people.
Pete Elmore
LAP Class of 1985
Brian Anderson
January 20, 2010
Abe was a genuinely kind person with a brilliant mind for politics and a gift for sharing his wisdom and insight with others.
At meetings with the Wake County Democratic Men's Club, he inspired me (and others) on many occasions to become more involved in the political process.
Paul Crissman
January 20, 2010
In the late 70s in Dr. Holtzman's graduate class, The Chief Executive, I knew then that I was in one of the all time great university classes with one of the great professors. Nothing in the intervening 30+ years has changed that belief.
Lisa Llewellyn Severino
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was an amazing teacher. He made us qualify every word we uttered - no indefinite "you's" or "that's." As his student, I was expected to read and study and form a coherent, cogent sentence before speaking in his class. I very much enjoyed the challenge. I recall one incident where I spied him in the office of the school. Nowhere to hide, I cowered as he approached. He gave me a stern look and intoned, "You're a GOOD, but lazy student." I felt myself beaming as, to my mind, I could ask for no higher praise (I knew I was a lazy student.) Political science has lost a great ambassador, but his legacy will live on in his books and the students he taught.
Jane Hoagland (Bulthaup)
January 20, 2010
My sincere condolences to Dr. Holtzman's family. As a N.C. State grad in 1976, he was my inspiration to major in Political Science. Although we differed on our political stances, he taught me how to debate on those differences. He was truly a great teacher and has left a wonderful legacy. I will always remember him as my favorite professor during my college years who brought his passion into the classroom everyday.
David Lambright
January 20, 2010
I was a political science major at NCSU in the late 1980s. Although I never had the pleasure of taking his class, I greatly appreciated Dr. Holtzman's friendly demeanor. I frequently would visit my advisor or one of my professors (Dr. Williams, Dr. Singh, Professor Pavlik, or Dr. Kessler), and whenever I spoke with him he was just a very positive and upbeat person. It cannot be expressed how much that helps students when they are finding their way in a degree program.
God bless Dr. Holtzman and your family as you go through this difficult time. I hope you know that the prayers of many people you have never met are with you to strengthen and comfort your family.
Sincerely,
David Lambright
Douglas Elliott
January 20, 2010
Dear Holtzman Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Professor Holtzman stands out in my memory more than any other instructor I had at NC State.
I remember him using the Socratic method, with me fighting the butterflies in my stomach wondering if I would be called on.
I remember his rebuke any time a student referred to the "federal government". He let us know that we have a "federal system of government" with one national government and the fifty state governments.
I remember him sprinting up the flights of stairs in Caldwell and Tompkins Halls, and putting the students to shame by showing how fast he could go.
I remember his powerful voice, and I remember a lot of what he taught me.
He was an icon at NCSU, and he will be missed.
Adam Bull
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holzman was a great inspiration to me as a student at NCSU. His ability to identify and encourage potential in students was amazing. Without his guiding hand I am confident I would not be where I am today. He has truly touched many lives and we should all strive to achieve his greatness as a benefactor to NCSU and the State of North Carolina. Adam W. Bull class of 1989
Timothy Spong
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman also was my committee chair at NCSU for my Master of Public Affairs degree (one no longer awarded by NCSU) 1971-1973. He was an excellent teacher and mentor, and an engaging intellectual sparring partner when we would at times debate matters from his liberal and my libertarian-conservative viewpoint.
My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Jeanne Barber Wilton
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was an incredible influence on my life. As a student at NCSU until my graduation in 1975 with a degree in Political Science, he was my major advisor and served as a constant guiding force in my development as both a writer and a thinker. He encouraged me to take a seminar off to pursue a congressional internship with then Congresswoman Liz Holtzman of New York. His support and encouragement changed the course of my life and my career choices and I always gave him credit for "sending" me to Washington for the first time. Dr. Holtzman also refused to take less than the best from me, even when I was not in one of his classes. One of my favorite (or rather most frightening) moments with him came when he saw me taking a final exam in another professor's class. He walked in and grabbed my blue book and after reading my first answer, he tore up the book and got me a fresh one with the instructions to 'start over and do better. I'll clear it with Dr. Maestro". I don't know who was more taken back, me or the other students in the exam who did not know him so well. Abe Holtzman was a joy; a gift; a complete inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to walk into his hallowed classrooms and I am proud to count myself as one of those very lucky souls.
Kathleen Murphy
January 20, 2010
When I applied for the Legislative Internship Program, it was overwhelming to be interviewed by Dr. Holtzman and yet, before the interviews were told by him to have fun and enjoy the time before the panel. After I was selected for the program, our best times were with Dr. Holtzman and I think of him often with fond memories. Blessed be the Lord and his servants.
Doug Corkhill
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my advisor at State College. I had entered the university as a politics major, but hoped to transfer within once I got there to the Design School. Thanks to Abe, and the inspiring political discussions we had in his office after classes, I never applied. Got my BA in politics and never regretted it for a minute. He truly defined the role of mentor.
Allen Hoilman
January 20, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my advisor when I attended NCSU in the mid-eighties. I confess I was a train wreck when I came to him. He helped put my feet back on the ground and get me moving in the right direction. I've always remembered him fondly. I sorry for your loss.
Al
Lou Signorelli
January 20, 2010
My sympathies to the Holtzman family. I'm sorry for your loss. I studies under Dr. Holtzman in 1983-84 and had nothing but admiration and respect for him. He will be missed by many.
Peaches Blank
January 20, 2010
Dear Holtzman Family,
My sincere sympathy to you. Dr. Holtzman was legendary. As a political science major and a MPA grad I had many occasions to learn from him. He was demanding but sincere in his desire for you to understand the issues. Much of my success in politics can be attributed to all the faculty of the policitcal science dept.--what a team of great professors.
During my tenure as Chair of the Board of Trustees at NCSU I often reflected on my days in the political science dept. and Abe Holtzman was always a part of those thoughts. He was truly one great guy!
David M
January 20, 2010
I was a student in the late 80s at NCSU and went on to get my BS in Political Science. Even as I look back and acknowledge I knew little of the world back then, it was still easy to recognize Dr. Holtzman was one heck of a guy and could make an impression on even those who spent brief moments with him. He was a significant presence and someone who had influenced me greatly.
January 20, 2010
Please accept my condolences. I did not know Dr. Holtzman, but as an alum of CHASS I know he will be greatly missed.
Hamid Madi
Jeff Penny
January 20, 2010
I was a student of Dr. Holtzman's in 1992-93 and greatly enjoyed his instruction, perspective and knowledge. My sincere condolences to Dr. Holtzman's family.
Amanda Morris
January 20, 2010
I took my first political science class as an elective with Dr. Holtzman my freshman year at NCSU. He was tough but he was also the inspiration for changing my major and pursuing a career in government. He left an incredible impression on all of us.
Marilyn Samet
January 19, 2010
I remember Dr. Holtzman and his lovely wife Sylvia as a strong team during classes he presented to Encore senior citizens. I am sure she has a library of his wonderful lectures on tapes for his grandchildren and their children to enjoy. I will always regret not giving up my stamp collection as he teased me about surrendering them. His legacy of learning and his legacy of family will keep his spirit close forever.
Carolyn Samet
January 19, 2010
Dr. Holtzman was my Committee Chair at NCSU for my MPA degree in the early 1970s. He lived up to his tough reputation, and many other students wondered why I chose him to chair my committee. I still know that answer today--he was awesome! I always felt that he wanted my best and he inspired me to give it. Abe Holtzman was the teacher, the mentor, the inspiration for many of us. So sorry for his loss.
Martha Lamb
January 19, 2010
I have very fond memories of Dr. Holzman. We met at an ethics conference
funded, as I recall, by the Humanities Council, in the late 70's. We had lunch together as we discussed ethics and political theory. I was discussing issues I had thought much about but had not typically TALKED about, especially with a professor of such high intelligence I had just MET. I felt invigorated and amazingly affirmed after that conversation. A very special man...Memories of him shall live in many hearts.
Jessica Herrmann
January 19, 2010
Adam and family, I am so very sorry to hear about your father's loss. All the best to your family during this time.
Lawrence Dorsey
January 19, 2010
I was a student in Dr. Holtzman's PS 201 class in 1991. I had heard how tough Dr. Holtzman was from my mother who had worked in the old College of Liberal Arts back in the 1960's. Dr. Holtzman was just as she described but he was an incredibly interesting man. My favorite Dr. Holtzman moments included: 1) Telling us that all test questions would be in essay format since real life was not true/false, multiple choice, or fill in the blank 2) leaving the room during exams because his essay tests were impossible to cheat on 3) ending an argument with a student about a passage in the textbook by saying "are you arguing with me about what's in the book...I wrote the book !". I felt extremely fortunate to get a B as there were only 4 B's given and no A's. I never crossed paths with him again but have always cherished the opportunity to take his class. I still have the textbook that he wrote !
Susan Robinson
January 19, 2010
Dear Adam and family,
Please know sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you in this bittersweet time of loss and in the celebration of your father's life. Truly, you, among other blades of grass, heard your father's whisper 'grow, grow, grow' (paraphrased from the Talmud). It seems your father was a wise man and you, Adam give him honor daily offering kindness as the highest form of wisdom. This day, I am thanking our God for the gift your father gave us in you. Blessings of peace, friend, Susan Robinson (NC colleague)
Dr. Dan Graham
January 19, 2010
Please enter a condolence here
When I first began teaching in the PS Dept. 22 years ago, "Dr. Abe" was the most welcoming , kind, and helpful professor a younger educator could have hoped for. He taught me the value and potential of each individual student. He was respected by students, faculty, and staff alike, and treated them all with equal respect. NCSU was very lucky to have him, and his many contributions--and so was I.
Dr. Abe was a real "Mensch" !!
Mary Tripp
January 19, 2010
Dear Adam,
I want to express my sympathy to you and your family on the death of your father. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones at this time. In reading your father's obituary, I see that he was a fine person who left a rich legacy. Holding fast to those precious memories will help sustain you and your family in the days and months ahead.
Joyce Tarantino
January 19, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Holtzman and a belated "thank you" for his service to our country in WWII.
I was privileged to have been one of his legions of students in the early 70's. My proudest moment at NC State was earning an "A" in Dr. Holtzman's senior politics class.
Joyce Tarantino
Class of 1975
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