Please see my latest entry in the "His Life" section.

Thank you.

Linda

Throughout my life, I have heard it said—“Your father is a unique individual.” While that description could mean many things, there was often no further discussion, and there seemed to be a mutual knowing about what was meant.

My dad had numerous qualities and characteristics, the combination of which added up to his uniqueness. Even when he was being his most challenging self, his extraordinary kindness, purest intentions, steadfast commitment to doing the right thing, high level of integrity, and touching sweetness were what seemed to shine the brightest and ultimately define who he was in the eyes and hearts of others.

I believe that the best of his uniqueness is the legacy that lives on in his children and grandchildren.  I find myself identifying with some of his mannerisms, behaviors, and thought processes, almost on a daily basis, and especially when one of my daughters says, “You’re turning into Grandpa.” J

My sister, Laurie, has demonstrated exceptional strength, and the capacity to do what needs to be done no matter what, and I have to believe that that was inspired by how our dad chose to live his life.

I am so grateful for all of the experiences I’ve had with my dad.  The many good times we shared have given me precious memories I will cherish always, and the challenges have motivated me to grow and to strive to be a better person.

Lastly, I am so thankful that this legacy—his uniqueness—continues to thrive in his grandchildren.  As you get to know each of them, some aspect of the best of Edgar has very apparently become a part of who they are.  And how lucky we all are to share in that.

I love you, Dad, and I miss you.

Your daughter,

Linda

Unfortunately, I only knew Ed for about a year and a half. He, and his wife Ilse, lived in the assisted living community where I worked as a receptionist.  I didn't know him as well as I would have liked to, but I cared very much about him and was very saddened when his health declined. 

For some reason, I rarely called him Ed or Eddie- he was always Mr. Spitz to me. He was the kind of man who commanded that kind of respect.

Though a man of few words, Ed was always kind to me- well, almost always. We did have a rather heated argument over a lack of ice cream in the Ice Cream Parlor one night. Aside from that silly tiff, I found Ed to be extremely bright, a lover of music and the arts, and good food.  Just about every night, Ed would have 2 bowls of soup along with the rest of his dinner. Where such a slight man put all that food was, indeed, a mystery to me. Through Ed, I found and enjoyed several new, very good restaurants. Thank you, Mr. Spitz, for that!

Also, through Ed and Ilse, I had the pleasure of meeting their daughter Laurie and her 3 wonderful kids. Laurie and I became friends and talked about many things when she came to visit her parents.  There was alot of love and mutual respect between Ed, Laurie and the grand-kids.  It seemed that Laurie spent a great deal of her time and energy running and doing things for Ed, for which he was always grateful. To me, he never seemed to take Laurie, or anyone else, for granted.

He could be irrascible, stubborn and blunt, but he always had a cheerful "good morning, ladies" for his table-mates.  He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor and loved a good laugh. Ed was very much a unique individual.

Mr. Spitz, you will be, and are, missed by many. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be a small part of your life!

Kim Brinkley