Robert Schuffler

1917 - 2015

Robert Schuffler died peacefully in his sleep early Thursday morning, September 3rd. If he had lived another 10 days, he would have celebrated his 98th birthday. His life took him on a journey from Ekatinaberg, Russia, where he was born on September 13, 1917, to Dvinsk, Latvia, where he spent his early childhood, and thankfully to Chicago, where he grew up, married, raised a family, worked in the fish business for many years, and then retired. His beloved parents were Isaac and Chana Schuffler, and he was the last of his five siblings (Rose Dachman, Florence Waldman, Celia Solomon, Laura Whalen, and Sidney Schuffler). If there is still such a thing as a family patriarch, he was it. He was devoted to his wife, Muriel, whom he married in 1939 and who predeceased him by 14 years. He is survived by his son, Michael (Shainie), who resides in Seattle, and his daughter, Carol, who lives outside Washington, D.C. He had a wonderful rich life, deriving "naches" from his two children (both doctors as he was proud of saying), his two grandchildren Jeremy Schuffler and Tracy Sigmon (Sean), and his two great grandsons, Nate and Evan. He leaves behind many devoted nieces and nephews, grandnieces and nephews, and great grandnieces and nephews, all of whom will miss him very much. Robert is best known as the original owner of Robert's Fish Market on Devon Avenue. Although of humble origins, his close relationship with a Mexican immigrant, Arturo, who now owns this last kosher fish market in Chicago, became a human interest story of two immigrants, one Jewish and the other Hispanic, that was covered by the Tribune, Public Television, and the "The Forward". As he would say in his older age, he had become "famous". After his wife died, Robert carried on an active life, visiting with Arturo in the fish market almost every day, kibitzing with old customers, and visiting with nephews and nieces and their children. He took great delight in interacting with young children, whether related or not. They energized him and made him feel young. He loved cooking and his gefilte fish was absolutely the best. Even at age 95, he cooked a whitefish dinner for the Men's Club at his synagogue. He remained independent and happy until just a few months ago when his failing health prompted a move from his condo to an independent living facility. Funeral services will be held at Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home, 111 Skokie Blvd, Wilmette, on Sunday at 11 AM. Shiva will be held at the Park Plaza, 6840 N. Sacramento, Chicago, from 6-9 PM on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday evenings. Visitation during the day on Monday and Tuesday, will be from 1-3 PM at the Park Plaza, Apt 225. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue 8825 East Prairie Road, Skokie, IL 60076 or Jewish National Fund. Funeral info: 847-256-5700.