RALPH DECKELBAUM

DECKELBAUM RALPH H. DECKELBAUM On Tuesday, September 14, 2021, RALPH H. DECKELBAUM age 92, of Bethesda, MD. Devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully at his home with his loving wife of 63 years, Vera, by his side. He was the proud father of Suzanne (Michael) Feinstein and Lori (Dean) Hoyland, fun-loving Saba to Jeremy, Zachary and Marissa Cytryn and Meryl Feinstein (Adam Steene). He was the youngest brother of the late Philip and Fred Deckelbaum. He will be missed by his many nephews, nieces, cherished cousins, and dear friends, both near and far. Born and raised in the District of Columbia, he was a native Washingtonian and graduate of Roosevelt High School, University of Maryland (BSA) and Georgetown University Law School (JD and LLM). He was a Captain in the Air Force JAG Corps during the Korean war. Professionally, he began as a civil litigation attorney in Washington, DC and Virginia. In 1965, he and his law partner, the late Bernard Margolius founded Mardeck, Ltd., a hotel management and development company. He served as President of the International Association of Holiday Inns and received the Kemmons Wilson Award created in honor of the late hospitality pioneer. He was a founding member and president of the Conference and Visitors Bureau of Montgomery County, MD. Ralph was well-known for his love for his family and friends, leadership in the community, and devotion to the Washington Football Team. He could be found at home and away games with his daughters, grandchildren, and extended family where he hosted noteworthy tailgate parties. He and Vera traveled extensively throughout the world, but his favorite place was relaxing at the beach with his family. Ralph's beach happy hours regularly brought family and friends together. Ralph was a longstanding member of Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County and one of the founders of the early morning minyan. He served as President of the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington and during his tenure started the expansion that culminated in the opening of the Ring House. Ralph was recognized for his volunteer leadership and philanthropic support. He and Vera received the Hebrew Home's Aunt Minnie Goldsmith Award for outstanding volunteer service to the community and the Jewish Social Service Agency President's Award. Ralph was awarded the prestigious Hymen Goldman Service Award from Charles E. Smith Life Communities and the Lamplighter Award from the Chabad Lubavitch of Maryland. The family expresses gratitude for the wonderful care by JSSA Hospice and his caregiver, Karen Garcia. Donations in his memory can be made to Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County or Charles E. Smith Life Communities. Graveside funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, 12 p.m. at King David Memorial Gardens, Falls Church, VA. Livestream services will be available. Arrangements entrusted to TORCHINSKY HEBREW FUNERAL HOME, 202-541-1001.Graveside funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, 12 p.m. at King David Memorial Gardens, Falls Church, VA. Livestream services will be available. Arrangements entrusted to TORCHINSKY HEBREW FUNERAL HOME, 202-541-1001.