Ira Katz

I am a student of his. When I was very young indeed, I frequented his store in Pasadena. I even still have one of his Tri-ess sciences catalogs!! He was a particularly fun mentor for me and my brother. I am sorry that he wasn't around longer! I hope that he is happy, wherever he is now. He inspired me to become an engineer (and garage scientist). He was a very special man, and even after all these years, I still miss him! Thank you Mr. Katz!!!

I knew Ira in 1965-66 when I dated his daughter, Sue. I'm a retired engineer and self employed artist and in my old age I decided that I wanted to paint Ira's portrait, as he was the finest man I ever knew. I could keep it but would prefer to give it to one of his grandsons by Susan as a keepsake, maybe Ben. I'm not totally finished with the work but should be in a few days. Here's a photo of the work in progress with my contact information. I don't need to establish a relationship with any...

A true legend and mentor has left us. The special effects world's 'bag o tricks' will never be quite full again.

Ira was a friend, true professional, and legend. When I first got in the business, he was one of the finest mentors you could find. We shared many talks about the IABTI of which he was one of the founding fathers. He was always willing to share and teach. You will be missed.

Thank you for all that you have done for our industry. You are a true legend and a mentor to us all.

Ira was a friend, a true professional and a gifted member of the motion picture special effects community. Thank you Ira for your talent, your graciousness and your indefatigable willingness to help all who sought your knowledge and skill. I pray for your well deserved rest with the lord.
I will miss you.

I'm certain the next time we see lightning and hear thunder, they will be a little brighter and a little louder now that Ira is on the job. A legend has past.

Thanks so much Ira for sharing your knowledge and giving us a warm and friendly place to learn. You have touched many lives.

We miss you.

I will truly miss Ira's wonderful personality, enthusiasm, charm, and, of course, his marvelous Tri-Ess store. His store is an example of a days-gone-by scientific wonderland for kids and adults alike. Even as an adult, and as a research scientist, I thoroughly enjoyed stroling down the narrow isles and seeing and touching the neat items which reminded me of my youth when I would do experiments in my elementary school classes (from the "ground up") with various items that I would get from...

Ira, you gave me my first chemical knowledge, and I thank you for that. You taught me what not to add to what, keeping me alive in my naive, younger years. I will always appreciate the time you took from your busy schedule to chat with me and give me advice. I will remember you always.