Murray L. Katz

Family-Placed Funeral Notice

MURRAY L. KATZ Age 73, formerly of Harrisburg, PA, died on Friday, October 7, at home in Jupiter, FL. He was the former owner of Empire Kosher Poultry, Inc., the largest Kosher poultry and foods processor in the world. Empire Kosher foods was founded in 1938 by his father, the late Joseph N. Katz. From meager beginnings in a garage in the back of his father's home, Murray at 20 years old peddled chickens to corner butchers and never took no for an answer. From corner butchers to worldwide distribution, the word Empire became synonymous with quality and trust. Through innovations and increased distribution, he was able to deliver over 300 products making it easy for Jews to observe the dietary laws as set forth by the Torah. The tag line, the most trusted name in kosher foods, symbolized Murray's unwavering commitment to quality and integrity. He spent much of his time on the Chesapeake Bay boating before retiring to Jupiter in 1992 for his found love of golf. Before retirement, he was involved in the Capital Area Health Foundation and was a former Board member of Temple Ohev Sholom. He served in the army during the Korean War, was a former director of the PA Chamber of Commerce and also was a Rotarian. He attended Perkiomen School and the University of Miami, FL. He was a Mason and a Shriner. He was married to the former Harriet Lasker of Little Rock, AR, for almost 50 years. He is survived by his wife; his sons: Steven Katz of Park City, UT and his wife Shari, Alan Katz of Paradise Valley, AZ, and his wife Faith; and his daughter, Jocelyn K. Sykes of Harrisburg. He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Brittany, Dylan, and Colby Sykes, and Harry, Hannah, and Alexandra Katz. Services will be held at 11AM on October 11, at the chapel at Mount Moriah Cemetery. Shiva will be observed October 11 with a 7PM service at 4113 Copperfield Drive. Arrangements by Hetrick Funeral Home, 3125 Walnut St., Harrisburg, PA. Donations can be made to Hospice of Palm Beach County, Inc., 5300 East Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33407.