Michael Kardon

Age 78 slipped quietly from life into eternity September 3 2006 following a courageous three year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his death. For decades Mr. Kardon was a well known Philadelphia area automobile dealer and was one of the first dealers to combine multiple makes of cars in the same location. His dealerships were know to many because of the backwards 'R' in the Kardon sign and advertising. At the time of his death Mr. Kardon owned Toyota of Runnemede in Runnemede NJ.
Born in Philadelphia Mr. Kardon was a graduate of Central High School and Temple University. He started in the car business in the early 50's first cleaning parts at a dealership in NE Phila. and later becoming a car salesman. Within two years he bought a small Chevrolet dealership in Mt. Holly NJ and turned it into the successful multi-franchise Kardon Auto Mall. At its height Kardon Auto Mall sold Chevrolet Lincoln Mercury Oldsmobile AMC Jeep Renault and Isuzu. He also owned dealerships in many locations in Europe.
Mr. Kardon was a former Chairman of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority in the 1980's. He served on many committees and played a leadership role in the New Jersey auto industry. He served in the Naval Reserves and the Army National Guard. Mr. Kardon was an avid golfer horseback rider and a Phillies season ticket holder for over 40 years. He was an active member of Green Valley Country Club where heenjoyed golf and cards.
Mr. Kardon is survived and greatly missed by his daughter Lexie son Martin (Cynthia) Kardon his former wife and beloved friend Carol grandchildren Max Lily Elizabeth and Harry brother Ken Kardon and sister-in-law Barbara Kardon. He waspredeceased by his parents Albert and Estelle Kardon and brothers Stanley and Steven Kardon.
Contributions in hismemory may be made to the Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology Professorship at the Abramson Cancer Center. Services were held Tuesday September 5 at JOSEPH LEVINE & SONS 7112 North Broad Street Phila. PA. Interment was held at Roosevelt Memorial Park.