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David M. Leventhal
1939 - 2024
David
was born on January 30th, 1939 and passed away on February 2nd, 2024 at the age of 85David M. Leventhal (1/30/39-2/2/24) Long-time owner of Cecil's Deli David Leventhal dies at 85. Proceeded in death by his parents Harry & Ruth Leventhal, sister Susan Yellin and brother Seymour Leventhal. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Sheila, his sister Leona Kasen; children Becca (Jonathan) Kvasnik, Brad (Patti), Amy, Aaron (Patty Rivard) -Grandpa Dave to his grandchildren Sasha, Evana, Madeline, Max, Sophie, Annie and Stella and many nieces and nephews. Born in Brooklyn, NY in 1939. David attended Minneapolis' North High School class of 1957 and was a proud Polar. He went on to receive a B.A. in Japanese History from the University of Minnesota. He served in the Air National Guard as a member of the 133rd Airlift Wing. At 22, David met Sheila Glickman, they then married and moved to St. Paul, where he raised his family and resided for the last 63 years. David was a member of the Jewish War Veterans and served as Commander. For over 50 years, David regularly played poker with dozens of friends. He was responsible for calling, planning, and even feeding them every week. Dave also formed an investment club which met weekly and strategized how to invest their groups' earnings and coordinate stock trades. He was again planning everything. As the group aged, David went so far as driving to his friends' houses and picking them up so they could be included. David was the glue that kept this group and many others together for decades. David was a 5th-degree black belt in Judo, one of the highest ranking in the United States, an achievement he was very proud of. He was essential in the foundation of a club on Robert Street, The Midway Judo. There he volunteered 3 times a week for over half a century, additionally achieving an international referee title. David was instrumental in transforming lackluster teens into elite athletes, some went on to compete in the Olympics. David dedicated his life to the discipline of Judo. In 1980, David took over his father-in-law's deli and carefully captained the ship for over forty years. He was a shrewd businessman who paid his bills on time and negotiated prices with his vendors. And yet, Dave took the time to remember you by your maiden name, knew your parents, and asked about your children. This was just his brain and his style, he knew and loved his community. Many customers will remember him schmoozing behind the counter and cracking jokes. David's legacy will be felt for many years at Cecil's. David and Sheila took great joy in the lives of their 4 children. He was amazed by his 7 grandchildren and worked hard to develop a bond with each one of them. As his family grew, Dave developed into an avid photographer, amassing thousands of photos documenting their lives. As a couple, David and Sheila loved to travel, taking many road trips across the country hoping to see all 50 states. They also loved cruising globally and cherished their time on tropical islands together. Through his close connections, David was able to visit Japan a myriad of times for free, a fact that he was especially proud of, photographing the landscape while immersing himself into the culture. David passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones. Throughout his life he continued to show his passions through acts of tremendous strength, commitment, and trust within his many cherished relationships. In lieu of flowers, based on David's values, please consider donating to the Temple of Aaron, David M. Leventhal Security Fund https://templeofaaron.org/ Graveside services 2 pm SUNDAY February 4th TEMPLE OF AARON CEMETERY, at 1690 Dale St. N, Roseville, 55113. Funeral service is available on zoom: www.hodroffs.com/DavidLeventhal (http://www.hodroffs.com/DavidLeventhal) Shiva services Sunday 2/4 at 6:30 pm and Monday 2/5 at 7 pm at Temple of Aaron Synagogue, 616 Mississippi River Blvd, St Paul, 55116.
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In Remembrance Of
David M. Leventhal
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