Ira S. Epstein

1932 - 2018

April 23, 1932 - April 21, 2018 Ira S. Epstein was born on April 23, 1932 in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of Harry and Jenny Epstein. Died April 21, 2018. He was a yell leader for, and lifelong fan of, the Cornhuskers. After graduating from the University of Nebraska undergraduate and law school, in 1957, he applied for and received a direct commission into the Air Force's Judge Advocate General or JAG court, fighting battles in courtrooms in Texas and California. He later worked for Melvin Belli and Raymond Sandler before forming the firm, Bazar and Epstein. He was one of the founding partners and managing partner of entertainment law firm, Cooper, Epstein & Hurewitz. Early in his career he represented Larry Harmon (Bozo the Clown), and nearly all of the acts who recorded under the Motown label. Later, his clients included Carroll O'Connor, Marlon Brando, Barbra Streisand, Mary Tyler Moore,Ted Knight, Lou Scheimer and Filmation Studios, and many others. For several years he served on the Board of Directors of North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solano Beach and also served for many years on the board of the San Dieguito Planning Group. Ira loved a good cigar, fine wines and the theater. Ira was truly devoted to his wife of nearly 62 years, Noddy, and is survived by brothers Tuffy (Helen) and Allen (Peggy), sister Gloria, sons Mark (Ruth), Bob (Tory) and James (Sofia); grandchildren, Emma, Alex (Brett Yorke), Sara (Steve Aylsworth), Yanni, Josh and Rachel, and great-grandson, Owen. Funeral service will be held at Mount Sinai, Simi Valley, on April 24 at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Ira's memory to a charity of your choice or North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe, Suite D, Solana Beach, CA 92075.