Samuel Gelt, 94, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2016, in Millbrae, CA, with his loving caregiver, Tess Jasmin, by his side. He is survived by his daughters Jerilyn, Roberta, and Marsha Gelt, son-in-law
Barry Schienberg, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Barbara Harkaway, nieces Joyce Spector (daughter #4), Dori Gelt-James and Beth Kleinknicht, nephews Steve Davis and Joe Harkaway, and great nephew, Eddie Pells. Sam was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sylvia, his partner of 64 years.
Sam loved his work as owner of North Star Auto Auction in Minnesota, where he was known as an ethical businessman who cared deeply about his employees, many of whom still remembered him with annual birthday cards. He proudly served as the first Jewish president of the National Automobile Association in 1979.
Sam and Sylvia retired to Boca Raton, FL, where they enjoyed their lovely home on the water, endless games of tennis, golf and bridge, a whirlwind social life and visits from family and friends. They moved to California in 2009 to be closer to their daughters. Sam and Sylvia traveled the world, making new friends wherever they went because no one told a story or a joke better than Sam (and no one laughed harder than Sylvia).
Sam was known for his love of music, both listening (especially to the rat pack), and singing, and was famous for serenading guests at the many parties he and Sylvia hosted. Sam was a veteran of WWII, a staunch supporter of Israel, and a generous philanthropist to many Jewish organizations and others. He was truly loved by his family, many friends and colleagues and will be missed.
Contributions in his memory may be sent to the National MS Society, Hadassah or the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.