Doris Durante Kahn

1924 - 2022

Doris Durante Kahn
June 13, 1924 - November 13, 2022
Columbia, South Carolina - Doris Durante Kahn, 98, of Columbia, SC died on November 13, 2022. Doris was born on June 13, 1924 in Union City, New Jersey. She was the daughter of Leo and Theresa Durante. Many in Columbia are feeling the loss of this extraordinary community leader, ambassador and friend. She was a member of the Beth Shalom Synagogue. Doris was a dedicated employee at MB Kahn Construction until her retirement in 1983. Some of the organizations close to her heart were the Garden Club Council of Greater Columbia, Bay Blossom Garden Club, Ikebana International 182, SC Camellia Society, Orchid Society, Sister Care, SC Philharmonic and many more too numerous to mention. She was not only a member of these organizations but an active participant, serving on boards, chairing fund raisers, hosting luncheons and meetings and much more. Doris exhibited her caring and kindness in many ways. Friends often received cards or calls of encouragement and if ill, care packages would show up on your doorstep. A friend recently commented, "She was simply the glue that held us together". A lady of astute intellect, insight and wit, her wise council was sought by many.
Doris is survived by her daughter, Debra Heidi Krell and grandson, Robert Cantu (Who lovingly referred to his grandmother as Gray, Gray) and his wife, Sarah. Also surviving are stepson Alan Kahn (Charlotte), stepdaughter Deborah Kahn Rubin (Michael), grandchildren, great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, Irwin Kahn and brother Raymond Walter Durante.
Doris stayed in touch with her grandchildren, nephews and their families and was so proud of their many accomplishments. She loved celebrating Jewish holidays with her niece, Ilsa Kahn Young, usually contributing her famous chocolate cake, cheese straws and chocolate roll always accompanied by her signature Pansy. She relished her time spent with her brother and nephews in Maryland celebrating holidays and special events. She often referred to her "wonderful life" with her late husband. "So many good memories" she would say.
A memorial service will be held November 17, 2022 at 6:15 p.m. at Beth Shalom Synagogue. Friends and family will gather to honor their hero and mentor with a Celebration of Life at the Garden Club Council Building, 1605 Park Circle, Columbia, SC, 29201 on Sunday, December 4, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.
Donations in Doris's memory may be made to the Garden Club Council of Greater Columbia, PO Box 50554, Columbia, SC, 29250 or to a charity of one's choosing.
Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.