Joseph Abelow

ABELOW, JOSEPH, of Miami Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 30, 2003. Beloved husband of the late Ruth for 55 years and a passionate supporter of Israel, he was surrounded by the love of his children, Dan (Roxane), David (Debbie), Judy (Sandy) and his six grandchildren. Born in Brooklyn near the start of World War I he was orphaned at the age of 15 and helped raise two brothers and a sister. After graduating Baruch College of City University of New York with a Master's Degree, he worked as a high school math teacher to help put his brother Irving through medical school and Sid through accounting school. Like Joe, they graduated at the top of their classes. Joe met Ruth at a Passover Seder during his basic training near the start of World War II and it was love at first sight. Joe served as a Captain in the Pacific during World War II, in the 855th Engineering Aviation Batallion. He was very proud of his and his brothers' war records, having compiled a substantial collection of medals between them, including a Purple Heart. He started the " GI Joe Jungle College" in Finchaven, New Guinea, which helped prepare enlisted men for getting a job after the war and was written up as a feature story in General MacArthur's War News. After the war he married Ruth and they lived in Manila, Philippines, where he built several businesses and received an award as the "Most Outstanding Industrialist in Manila". After giving birth to Daniel and David in Manila they moved to Miami Beach in 1953 where their daughter, Judy, was born. He was an active South Florida entrepreneur who built a number of successful businesses. Much more important to him, he served in many volunteer roles such as President of the Brotherhood of Temple Emanuel in Miami Beach, for which he received a national leadership award from the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs. He served the community in many other ways, such as serving as President of the Taxpayer's Association, and received the Key to the City from the Mayor of Miami Beach in recognition of his many years of service to the community. He was always an adventurous traveler, such as traveling throughout the Far East and Indonesia right after World War II, throughout China soon after its historic opening by Nixon in the 1970's, to Egypt after the first Mideast peace was signed, and throughout Russia after the fall of Communism. He lived personally modestly, focusing on the pleasures of family, supporting Israel, service to others and an enduring love of dark chocolate. He will be remembered for his dedication and love to his family and his many friends. He will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 3rd at 10:00 AM BLASBERG-RUBIN-ZILBERT MEMORIAL CHAPEL A Levitt-Weinstein Chapel 720 71st Street, Miami Beach (305) 538-6371 Burial immediately following at Mt. Nebo - Miami Cemetery. After the burial relatives and friends may return to Joseph Abelow's home. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the American Cancer Society or any Jewish charity. To visit this Guest Book Online, go to www.herald.com/obituaries.