Louis Paul Spritzer

NEWPORT NEWS - Louis Paul Spritzer, a resident of Newport News since 1944, went to his eternal rest on Monday, April 5, 2004. He was born and educated in the schools of New York. He was a pioneer retail merchant having opened stores in the Tidewater area for Miller's, a ready-to-wear specialty shop; GEX, one of the first discount stores in this area and GENTS, a men's specialty shop, working with each of these concerns as a store manager, store merchandiser and operational manager. He was first and foremost, a successful retail store troubleshooter and problem solver either with an upstart new retail store or one with problems. He helped start many new businesses ensuring they would thrive and be successful, developing these stores into the million dollar category. During his tenure in the retail business, he served on the board of the Retail Merchants Association and was active in local community fund drives. Mr. Spritzer was a member of Rodef Sholom Temple since 1944 and was active in many of their activities, including the choir and cabaret performances. He was a member of Rodef Sholom Temple Men's Club. Mr. Spritzer and his wife of 63 years undertook the task of obtaining bus service to the Hidenwood area when they moved there in 1956. The Citizens Rapid Transportation (CRT) advised them to obtain signatures of local residents and organizations, which they did, after which CRT indicated they would make trial runs but would cancel if there was insufficient interest. This effort led to the permanent bus runs to the area, which previously ended at Lake Maury. The family would like to thank Dr. Jeffrey Gluckman and his nurses, Terry and Jennifer and also Dr. Robert Walters for 'always' being there when needed; Ms. Jennifer Kelsay, James River Convalescent Center Administrator and her staff for their care and compassion; and the many residents at the Jefferson Wing with whom we became like 'family' sharing problems and extending understanding in our situation. Mr. Spritzer is survived by his wife, Edith Kopp Spritzer, and his children and grandchildren, Stephanie Spritzer Gelman, Jack K. Gelman, Ian M. Gelman and Jessica C. Gelman; and Dr. Ira B. Spritzer, Janice D. Spritzer , Siena D. Spritzer and Olivia M. Spritzer, and nieces and nephews and good friends. A graveside service will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, in Rosenbaum Cemetery with Rabbi Gilah Dror officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jewish Community Center's 'Grand Club' for Senior Citizens' programming, 2700 Spring Road, Newport News, VA 23606, or a favorite charity. Arrangements by Peninsula Funeral Home.
Published in the Daily Press on 4/6/2004.