Norman David Gassman

Norman David Gassman, affectionately known as Mr. Foot-Lites, passed away on July 1, 2025, after a brief illness, and surrounded by family at Tidewell Hospice in Sarasota, FL, at the age of 83.

He was born on January 21, 1942, the third child of Herman Gassman and Ida Fishkind in Dayton, Ohio. Norman was his mother's baby. He attended Fairview High School in Dayton, and the University of Cincinnati.

Foot-Lites, the shoe store, was his baby. Starting in 1972, Norman created, owned, and operated 3 very successful Foot-Lites in the greater Cincinnati area, along with franchises in Columbus, Ohio and Florence, Kentucky. They were magical - winning several awards for design and best fashion funk. The shoe dogs in the industry called him "Stormin Norman" because of his aggressive business style. He also lectured at the University of Cincinnati School of Fashion Design, mentored students and employees, created a store co-op program, and a shoe design competition with prize.

In 2002, Norman created his last Foot-Lites on St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, Florida - his retirement store, and more magic. He decided to sell the store in 2007, go traveling with his wife, and spent the next 15 years, very happily volunteering around Sarasota. He volunteered everywhere - 5 days a week. His favorite positions were at Mote Marine and Jewish Family Services, where he was Volunteer of the Year in 2016.

Norman is survived by his loving wife and business partner of 50 years, Stephanie Gassman; his daughter Michelle, son-in-law Andy Serwin, granddaughter Jennifer, grandson Brett of San Diego, CA; his sister Sylvia Kopkin of Boca Raton, FL; his brother Dr. Philip Gassman and Joan Eigen of Palm Beach, FL; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A small family service was held on July 10, 2025. Donations can be made in Norman's memory to Tidewell Hospice in Sarasota, FL.