CAGAN, ISADORE

Isadore Cagan, “Izzy”, 85 [September 24, 2010], longtime resident of West Rogers Park, Chicago. Most recently of Clermont, FL. Loving father to Jeffrey (Sandra), Debra, Elyse, and Leonard; devoted grandfather to Robyn (Don), Bryan, Victoria, Ari, Meredith, Michael, Erica, Michelle and great-grandfather to Jack; fond brother to Shirley (Lester) Bernfeld and Roz (Art) Born; brother-in-law to Lee Davis (Lynn obm); uncle to six nieces and nephews; great-uncle to many. Born in Chicago in 1925 to parents Meyer and Mary, Izzy graduated from Crane High School before serving his country during World War II. He was a proud member of the U.S. Marine Corps, serving from 1941 to 1943, taking place in the invasion of Guam and Battle of Guadalcanal, as well as battles at Iwo Jima, Saipan and Okinawa. Izzy earned a Purple Heart and Silver Star for his service to his country. He took his love for children and his love for the Marines and began the Toys for Tots Program with the Marines. After the war, Izzy married Sylvia Cagan (obm) and worked with his father-in-law, “Pappa Al” of Al’s Clothing on the West Side of Chicago where he learned his lifelong talent to make everyone feel welcome. 60 years later, people still remember the suits that Izzy Cagan sold them. Izzy was known to make everyone he came in contact with both personally and professionally feel special. People remember him years later as “the man who brought the donuts, bagels and cream cheese” to everyone from secretaries to CEOs. Even in his final weeks, he continued to make an impression on his doctors, nurses, and other caretakers with his incredibly positive attitude, cheery disposition and most importantly his powerful will to live and love of life. Simply put, everyone loved Izzy. An avid stamp and coin collector, Izzy enjoyed sharing his hobbies with his children and grandchildren. He was an avid sports fan and was thrilled to see his beloved Chicago Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup before his passing. His greatest passion was his work, serving as President of Cagan Management Group in Clermont, FL for the past 35 years. Izzy was especially close to 3 members of the Cagan Management Team, Cindy Shields, Nancy McDonald and Shireen Green, all of whom worked with him for over 20 years. Graveside Services, Monday, September 27, Westlawn Cemetery, 7801 W. Montrose Ave. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Izzy’s name to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 43250-0301 or Chabad of South Orlando, P.O. Box 690282, Orlando, FL 32869.