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Harold Wiesenthal Obituary
Harold was committed to the Heights area of Houston and played a prominent role in its revitalization. During his lifetime, he received countless awards and accolades from the many charitable organizations he supported throughout the years. He was named Retailer of the Year, Sportsman of the Year and Torch of Life Award recipient from the American Cancer Society. He was an honorary member of the Houston Golf Association, Director Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, served on the boards of Texas Commerce Bank - Reagan and Boys and Girls Country. He was Muscular Dystrophy Chairperson 1988 - 1990. For many years he hosted an annual golf tournament benefitting Boys and Girls Country, M. D. Anderson, St. Joseph Foundation, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society and Memorial Park. Harold was also one of Marvin Zindler's Guardian Angels, helping less fortunate people from all over the world.
Harold is survived by the love of his life, Libby Feingersh, his sons, Darryl Wiesenthal and Michael Wiesenthal and daughter, Tammy Winkler and husband John; his grandchildren, Alexandra and Jared Wiesenthal and Sterling and Whitney Winkler, his sister, Ruth Walkow and nieces, Stephanie Pollak Maierson, Fredell Pollak Rosen, Janet Walkow, nephew Gary Walkow and special cousin, Dorothy W. Levinson. In addition to his parents, Harold is predeceased by his grandson, Jonathan Winkler, his sister, Lillian Pollak and her husband, Buddy (Edward), his brother, Milton Wiesenthal, and his brother-in-law, Arnold Walkow.
The family would like to thank the extended family of care-givers who have helped Harold these last few years.
Honored to serve as casket bearers are Norman Brady, Earl Cambell, Vann Chancellor, Jack Farrar, Larry Feingersh, Charlie Milsted Sr., and Doug Sanders
Serving as honorary casket bearers are Jason Baker, Ted Dinerstein, Melvin Dow, Jack Key, Joel Sachs, Albert Stein, and R.L. Waltrip.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at 1:00 pm at Congregation Beth Yeshurun, 4525 Beechnut, Houston, Texas 77096.
Following the service, the family with gather for a private interment at Beth Yeshurun Cemetery.
Please direct contributions in Harold's memory to: The Houston Parks Board, Inc. Attention:Becky Porteous 300 N. Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX 77024. Please reference Harold Wiesenthal.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harold Wiesenthal
June 17, 2012
We will always remember how kind gracious and generous Harold was. Always giving of himself and his worldly goods to those less fortunate, he leaves very big (if elegant ) shoes to fill.
Ellen and Richard Lowe
Lisa Waterwall
June 12, 2012
Harold was more than just the owner of a successful men's clothing store. He was the patriarch of the Wiesenthal family.
Whenever I went into his store, he had a way of lifting my spirits, no matter how down in the dumps I was. Harold, you will be missed, but never will you be forgotten.
June 12, 2012
What a legend!!!!
My prayers to the family
love denise and katie lucia
Jacque Nicholson-Jakob
June 12, 2012
Our deepest condolences to the Wiesenthal family. Our family enjoyed shopping at Harolds for years. You always felt so special being there. Harold was a fine man and contributed so much to the community. He will be missed greatly.
Allison Good Plotkin
June 5, 2012
Dear Wiesenthal Family:
I send my heartfelt condolences as you mourn the passing of your loved one, Harold. I was fortunate to meet Harold many times as my mom, Maxine worked for Harold's in the Heights for close to 20 years. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Georgana Repal
June 1, 2012
Michael and Darrel,
Harold was a wonderful man! As a native Houstonian; I always learned so much more of the history of our city when I talked to Harold. My father was also from the Heights and appreciated Harold's contributions. I would visit with him at the Houstonian and then take friends to the store. All of my out of town friends had to shop in Harold's before they left town. He was truly an icon; that void will never be replaced.
My thoughts are with you at this time.
Georgana Repal (Houston, Texas)
Gene Kuhn
May 30, 2012
My father-in-law, Paul Davis, asked me to post an appreciation of respect, and gratitude for the kind heart, of this fine gentleman. Paul Davis and his family traded many times over the years with "Harold". prior to the passing of Paul's father, J.L.Davis, Harold paid a visit to Mr> Davis in the hospital. At the time of his passing, Harold donate the suit, of which Mr. Davis was buried. This kind act was just one of the many, throughout the life of this fine gentleman. May you fly with the angels, Mr. Wiesenthal.
Jolene Nixon
May 30, 2012
Harold, you were one of a kind. Over the past 34 years, you were so much more to me then "a boss". Thank you for the honor and privilege to work for you. You taught me so much about business, people and life. We shared ups and downs, as well as tears and laughter. You will always have a special place in my heart.
Deborah Haynie
May 30, 2012
Michael, Darryl, and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Cherish the sweet and loving memories you shared with your Dad.
Mary Ybarra-Sorola
May 30, 2012
My condolences to the family. I visited Harold's Clothing store before it closed it's doors; planned on returning as I fell in love with the ss set I purchased. Unfortunately, the next time I came by, it was closed. May God bless Harold for all his contributions to my native hometown of Houston, Texas.
Burt Darden
May 30, 2012
You didn't have to be a professional athlete or politician to get first-class treatment from Harold. He was a marketing genius with a kind heart and a knack of making everybody feel special.
Ben Rosenberg
May 30, 2012
I'm sorry I will not be able to attend the funeral today, but my thoughts and prayers are with the family. I always loved shopping at Harolds - he made you feel like a million bucks. I'm honored to have known him.
Frankie B Mandola
May 30, 2012
Harold was truly a Houston Icon! A Sports Classic! Proud to have served him!
steve vallone
May 30, 2012
I can never thank Harold enough for taking me up to President Bush's office many times. It's not often that a couple of guys get to practice putting with a former President on his office carpet.
Dr. Jim & Joan Harrell
May 30, 2012
My husband still proudly wears Harold's clothes. Our memories are long & fond. I became friends with Libby and can only imagine her feeling of loss.
Ray Hunt
May 30, 2012
My dad, who Harold called "The Cookie Man", bought all of his suits at Harold's for many years. He will be missed.
George Polk,III
May 29, 2012
I will always remember seeing Harold around the store. He always greeted me with a smile, and got me fitted in something I could not afford. I am fortunate to have some great memories of Harold, his store, and his family.
With our deepest sympathy - The Polk Family
May 29, 2012
I was sadden when Harold's men shop was closing a while back,a loss to the heights area, but I can remember a time in 1975,I was getting married and looking for a special suit to wear and already went by Foley's and Sakowitz and decided to go by Harold's and when I walked in Harold welcomed me and I told him what I wanted and where I had been . He said your are not going any where, I got what you need and before I left I had a suit , shirt. socks,and shoes.What a salesman!
May you rest in peace and our deepest sympathy with your family.
Marion Noski
Houston, Texas
Ruben Ramirez
May 29, 2012
I had the privilege of working for Harold's from 1972 to 1974 while I was in high school. He greeted practically every customer who ever walked in the door with his famous greeting,"Hi, I'm Harold." The memories I have of Harold and Milton are priceless.
May 29, 2012
I have only known Mr. Harold for three and a half years my ladies and I had the pleasure of being his caregivers, it was a pleasure to care for Mr. Harold, we heard all the stories about the store, his family, and met a few of his friends who happened to come. by while we were at work. Our goals as caregivers was to become his extended family, I Pray that we accomplished that in the eyesight of his family and friends.(S.& L)Louise Jenkins
May 29, 2012
My condolences to Michael and Darryl. Going to "Harold's in the Heights" was like going to a very dear friends home. I truely miss the store and visiting with Harold and talking golf.
Jim Baker
Spring, Texas
Carol and Ronnie Rauch
May 29, 2012
Harold has been so dear to all of our family throughout our lives. What a special gentleman. Our deepest heartfelt sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to all his family at this most difficult time.
Shelly Schoenfelder
May 29, 2012
Dear Wiesenthal Family,
My deepest sympathy to you in this time of sorrow. Harold will be missed greatly. I fondly remember receiving a call from him one day telling me he had found a photo of my dad and his foursome members from a Harold's Golf Tournament. He wanted my address so he could send me that photo. I framed the photo and gave it to my dad for Father's Day.
Elmon Deeds
May 29, 2012
Harold is now in a better place and our prayers are now with family.
We all have our stories about such a neat guy. As a young boy walking down 19th street on my way home from Hamilton I would look in the window at this new clothing store. One day Harold was standing out front and invited me in and introduced me to Milton. After that Dad and I purchased clothes from Harold's.
Harold was drafted in the Army. I wrote him frequently and Mom would bake cookies and candy for Harold and his friends. He would send me pictures (which I still have) showing his Army experiences. He would also send me gifts from the different countries. I still have all but one of the gifts. I have told this story many times.
God's Blessings,
Elmon Deeds (Magnolia, TX)
Robert Dunn
May 29, 2012
My family and I have done business with Mr. Harold for over 3 generations. In spite of his legendary status, Mr. Harold would always make you feel like the special one. A visit to the store was a little better when I got to talk to the man himself, Mr. Harold. He was a good person, and will forever be remembered as a true Houston icon. My sympathies go out to Michael, Darryl and the rest of the Wiesenthal family. God bless.
Fran Ditta-Danna
May 29, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to Michael, Tammy, Darryl & Libby. Harold was truly our best friend who loved my Dad Vincent Ditta like a brother.He did so much for our family. We will treasure his love, friendship, and generosity. What a great legend! He will truly be missed.
Glenn Gustafson
May 28, 2012
Harold and Milton were not just in the men's clothing business...they were ambassadors from the Heights to the rest of the world. Hope the putter stays hot in Heaven, Harold...I understand the greens there are fantastic!
Marlene Rubin
May 28, 2012
Twenty three years ago, I met Harold Wiesenthal in a most unusual way. At the depths of despair, I was at the funeral of my mother, Pearl "Raye" Plotkin who died when I was a young mother with four young children. The ONLY detail of the funeral that I can remember is that Harold Wiesenthal came up to me, introduced himself, and told me that my mother was the reason he was able to get through high school. After a pause, he said, "I cheated off of her! Your mother was a smart woman." I burst out in laughter and to this day chuckle when I remember this event. I'll never forget his kindness. What a mensch! I know that his family will sorely miss him. Marlene Plotkin Rubin
Nova Tropeano
May 28, 2012
We are friends of John and Tammy Winkler, Mr. Weisenthal's daughter. They have so much love for Mr. Harold and I know they will have much sadness to endure. We are keeping them in our prayers and know the community will do the same for this wonderful man's family. Love, The Tropeano family
kenneth pulley
May 28, 2012
Harold was a legend. I was attending Hogg Jr. High in the early 50's and remember my first pair of darpes, I though I was the coolest guy in school. Went to Reagan, and shopped at Harolds whenevr I could and so did my dad. I remember in the early 50's meeting Harold at a mutual friends bay house. Harold gave us kids a ride in Galveston Bay in his speed boat, what a thrill that was for me. He was a celeberity in my mind. God will bless his kindness to others while he was here among us. God Bless his family, you were fortunate to have such a wonderful dad.
Ken Pulley (Houston, Texas)
Toby Myers
May 28, 2012
My knowledge of Harold was slight. I was one of the carpool drivers to Beth Yeshurun and his daughter, precious Tammy, was in the carpool with my son Jordan Faires. To me, he was the epitome of a “hale fellow, well met,” but to Houston, he was an institution! A great loss for the community.
Betsy Parish
May 28, 2012
My fondest memories of Harold Wiesenthal include his many kindnesses to others. He was the epitome of of a true southern gentleman, always gracious to a fault. When asked years ago by the public relations office at the Hyatt Regency Houston to arrange a golf game for a visiting celebrity who could not gain entrance at any of Houston's country clubs, Harold immediately invited the star to play with him at Westwood Country Club, a gallant gesture that made the star, Flip Wilson, his newbestfriend. Shortly thereafter, when hosting the Tonight Show for Johnny Carson, Flip invited Harold to appear as his guest and utter his famous boast to the world: "I'm Harold. I dress 70, talk 80, and shoot 90, when my putter's hot."
It was a magical moment, not only for Harold, but also all of his many admirers in Houston.
With this fond memory, I join others in offering my heartfelt condolences to the Wiesenthal family. He will be missed!
harry simon
May 28, 2012
My condolences to the Wiesenthal family. He was a great merchant and inspiration to the independent retailer. May his many good deeds bring comfort to his family. Harry Simon for the Manny Simon family
Sherron Walsweer
May 28, 2012
Our thoughts & prayers go out to the family. Mr. Harold was a prince of a man, respected by all, so helpful to his customers. We became friends and appreciated his help every time we visited his store. May he rest in peace. Harry Walsweer family
May 28, 2012
Dear Michael, Darryl, Libby, and all of Harold's wonderful family, what a precious man to have known for so many years, Such a true, true gentleman and gentle man. My father(Albert Jamail)and Harold were such good friends for so long and I remember Harold coming in our grocery store so many times, just as I remember going into his store in the Heights so many times. He, along with Darryl and Michael, always made it such a joy to be in that clothing store. Phillip and I will keep the entire Wiesenthal family in our thoughts and prayers, and Harold will be so greatly missed by so many for so long. Lovingly, Carol Jamail McAliley and Phillip McAliley
Jim Karen Winkler
May 28, 2012
We are sorry to hear about the passing of Harold Wiesenthal. God bless you and your family.
Oel Castner
May 28, 2012
Jimmy Demaret,Dave Marr, Doug Sanders and many more wore Harold's golf slacks, because they were the "Best". I was a struggling salesman, so when Harold got one of their rejects he would call me and ask me a small price for the finest britches' in the world. Harold loved Houston and the Heights more than anyone. Houston "Loved" Harold, a true Texas original. I will miss a old friend.
Deana Connell-Born
May 28, 2012
Sending my deepest condolences, my dad was a very good friend with Harold and I have many memories growing up of Harold and going to his store with my dad. I was Deana Raye as a little girl as Harold called me. My thoughts are with the family.
Deana Connell Born ( Raymond's daughter)
Mary Webster
May 28, 2012
We lived next door to the Wiesenthal's. I remember seeing Harold and Milton playing out front when they were young. I didn't know his father, but his mother was a very kind, loving lady. Harold has done a lot for the community and will be missed. Our condolences to your family. I am one of the TERRY's. My parents and siblings are now deceased.
Mary Terry Webster
Jack Hodson
May 28, 2012
Houston has lost another icon and the city and all of us are poorer for it. Thank you Mr. Wiesenthal for all you did to make this a better place for all.
May 28, 2012
Deepest condolenses to the loss of another Houston icon. May he forever rest in peace. -from his old neighbors on Aberdeen Way.
Cindy Dugger, Hendricks
May 28, 2012
My deepest condolences go out to the family. Harold was always there for my dad and our family. Houston and the Heights have suffered a great loss. Harold was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family at this time.
Lynn Hoyt McIntyre
May 28, 2012
My father, Ross Hoyt, got his first suit from Harold's when he went to college in the 50's. He shopped at Harold's his entire life and the tradition was carried on by all his children. I never went in without Harold saying a most kind word about my father, his friends or my family. We will all remember and miss you.
May Frances Hollins
May 28, 2012
To the family know that God will be wirh you during these trying times. I remember mr. harold was one of a kind. Thank God for him.
Pam Fridrich
May 28, 2012
I worked for Libby Feingersh in the early 1970's, and enjoyed Harold's visits to our office. What a handsome, cheerful person he was. Much love to Libby.
Johnny Webb
May 28, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jim Zarnow
May 28, 2012
Michael & Darryl my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your dad was family to me and I am deeply saddened by his passing. He was one of a kind, and Houston, and the Heights, has suffered a great loss. I know that you are very proud of your dad. I am proud to have known him for over 60 years, and that he called me friend.
Pat Schoenfelder
May 28, 2012
Dear Harold...how everyone loved him. Last time I saw him was at my husband's funeral. We have know him for fifty + yearsl God bless him. My prayers are with the family and I am so sorry for your loss.
Pat Schoenfelder
May 28, 2012
With much respect and our deepest condolences....our thoughts and prayers are with all his loved ones and extended family members...now in their time of grief...Harold was a beloved member of our family too...
Connie and Sandra Winkler
Debra Zarnow
May 28, 2012
My deepest condolences to your family. My dad knew Harold from the time he opened his store. My uncle was one of his employees for a short while and my grandparents loved him. I stopped in to the store a few years ago and he sat and talked to me for about half an hour. He remembered my grandma's fried chicken. He was such a sweet man.
dennis and donna hicks
May 28, 2012
we are so sorry to hear about Harold. you are in our prayers.
Tom Fulmer
May 28, 2012
My deepest condolences and respect...To
a Boss and part Father figure while I worked at Harold's during my 45 years of
retail. Houston has lost a wonderful gentlemen.
May 28, 2012
A great loss. My husband, Tom Caraway, bought the first pair of tailormade drapes Harold sold in the early 50s. He was also the first newspaper ad...a picture of Tom with his trombone and the caption read, "I could swing and sway in a Marlborough shirt from Harold's all day." When we married in 1957 Harold gave Tom a shirt, tie, shoes and socks for a wedding gift. What a man!
Marlene Stewart Caraway
May 28, 2012
I Live next door to Harold"s at Houston Heights Tower. I had Met Mr.Wiesenthal at his clothing store at one time when I went in there to buy a Tie and Shirt to ware to a wedding. He was a very nice and friendly man. He will be missed by many people. My prayers go out to his Family. May he R. I. P.
Gary L. Casto Sr.
Houston, Texas
Carrie Anderson
May 27, 2012
Our hearts are deeply sadden by the passing of a dear friend and a wonderful man. Mr. Harold was a favorite of our dad the late Issac Anderson " Champ"of Hopewell Community, Bedias,Texas.We live near the Scales Ranch and were neighbors for many years to one of his family members. At the passing of our dad in 1995, Mr. Harold selected a shirt and tie and those precious memories we will never forget.
We the family of " the late Champ Anderson" sends our sincere condolences to his family.
May 27, 2012
Our deepest condolences and respect...our thought and prayers are with all his loved ones and extended family members...now in their time of grief...
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