Joseph S. Horowitz

Obituary

Joseph S. Horowitz, 84, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 18, 2006. Formerly of Springfield, MA, he was a resident of Fort Myers since 1955. Born on May 29, 1921, the son of Mary and Irving Horowitz, he honorably served his country and was a veteran of WWII.

Honesty and integrity were the tenets that guided how he conducted his affairs and lived his life. Joe was an owner of Gulf Iron and Metal Company for many years. He was a charter member and acted as the lay Rabbi for Temple Beth El in Fort Myers during it's formative years. During his retirement, he was a mentor to at-risk elementary school children. He spent many hours reading to and counseling young students. Consistent with his adoration for children, he founded the Joseph S. Horowitz Scholarship Fund through the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties to help disadvantaged students further their education. Joe also was a mediator in the court system in Lee County.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Suzie, sons William (Andrea) and Mark (Arlene) and step-daughters Sharon Norgart and Robin Baum and 7 grandchildren Nicholas, Devon, Stephanie, Natasha, Dane, Jenna Leigh and Brandon. He is also survived by his brother Alfred, sister Frieda and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by Lillian and his sister, Ruthie.

A graveside service will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 1589 Colonial Blvd. at 11 AM Tuesday, March 21, 2006. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to either Hope Hospice or the the Joseph S. Horowitz Scholarship Fund through the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties.