David Ellbogen

1921 - 2017

David Freiler Ellbogen, born August 28, 1921, passed away on June 15, 2017. Devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He is survived by his sister, Marian Scheffler, sons Andrew and Thomas and their wives Dana and Catherine, and three granddaughters, Lauren, Kate and Erin. David was a lifelong learner, with diverse interests in the arts, politics, opera, and pop culture. At 95, he could be found researching in the library, attending classes at Northwestern University, surfing the Internet, or volunteering his time in inner city classrooms. A sophisticated and engaging individual with a genuine interest in people, David could converse on nearly any subject and made many lifelong friends. Born and raised in Chicago, young David was educated at the prestigious Lab School at the University of Chicago, attended Governor Dummer Academy in Connecticut, and ultimately earned his degree from the University of Chicago. He is an alumnus of Camp Nebagamon in Wisconsin, one of the oldest boys camps founded in 1929. A veteran of World War II, David served stateside as an interpreter, and upon discharge, joined the Stein & Ellbogen Company, a Chicago-based wholesale jewelry business founded by his grandfather, Maximilian Ellbogen. In his later years, David was active in local politics, serving as a Republican committeeman, and was a lifelong member of Sinai Temple Chicago. Among the things he cherished and loved the most were traveling with his sister and spending time with his grandchildren, his family and his friends. He will be missed. A service will be held on Monday, June 19th 11 a.m. at Chicago Sinai Congregation, 15 W. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL 60610. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in David's name to Chicago Sinai Congregation Social Action Fund, 15 W. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL 60610. For information please call Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home at (847) 831-4260 or www.kelleyspaldingfuneralhome.com.