WILLIAM DAVIDOWITZ

William Davidowitz left this world on Tuesday January 2, 2018 surrounded by three generations of his family. He was a humble, caring, and generous provider for his family, faith and community.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bill moved to Hazleton in time for his Bar Mitzvah. His parents Rose and Hyman Davidowitz and his sisters Minnie, Sophie and Lillian were pillars of the Jewish community. His early life revolved around the JCC and basketball. He served in the United States Army during World War 2 and was discharged in 1946. Following his armed service, he attended Penn State University, graduating in 1950 with a degree in Business Administration.

Bill went into the family shoe business in Hazleton working at Columbia Footwear for two years, and then founded Penn Footwear in Nanticoke which manufactured play-shoes and children's shoes until 1994. An active member of the community, Bill served on the boards of Temple Israel, the Jewish Community Center, Fox Hill Country Club and Penn State University Lehman campus, and served as treasurer and President of the Trustees for the Jewish Federation. In 1980 he received the Seligman J. Strauss Lodge community service award. He was also recognized by the Luzerne County Community College for his efforts as Vice Chairman of the Building Authority for his role in the construction of the school in 1979. Knowing that his gifts of time, talent and treasure were making a difference gave an additional dimension of meaning to his life.

Bill is survived by his wife Esther of 62 years; his sons Jeffrey and his wife Sherry; Steven, Ivan and his wife, Cheri; and Ben; his grandchildren Adam, Stefanie, Sam, Kim, Daniel, Amanda, Max, Harrison and Rosie. Bill recently celebrated his 90th birthday, where many friends and relatives traveled from near and far to celebrate his life. Watching everyone dance and sing around him was a profound and moving experience and a testament to his character and dedication to those he loved. His greatest joy was participating in family activities, most especially "boys night out" with his sons and their friends. He will be remembered and missed by his family, friends, extended family, and community.

The funeral will be conducted at Temple Israel (239 S River Street, Wilkes-Barre) at 11:30am on Thursday, January 4, 2018. He will be buried at the Agudas Israel Cemetery in Hazleton.

Arrangements are being made by the Rosenberg Funeral Chapel, Wilkes-Barre.

Shiva will be observed from 5-7pm Thursday at The Woodlands, and on Friday from 2-4pm, Sunday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm, and Monday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at the Davidowitz home (621 Meadowland Ave, Kingston).

Contributions can be made to Temple Israel, JCC Camp, Penn State or charity of Donor's Choice.

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