Robert Edward “Bob” Levinson

Obituary

Robert Edward “Bob” Levinson was a man of many interests and passions. A leader in business, philanthropy, and civic affairs, Mr. Levinson passed away February 19, 2022, a month shy of his 97th birthday. Bob was born on March 12, 1925, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Son of Al and Goldye Levinson.

Mr. Levinson lived an amazing life surrounded by family and friends who relied on his advice and counsel on a wide range of affairs.

He graduated from Miami University (Ohio) in 1950 after a stint in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served in the Navy from July 1943 to May 1946 as an assistant fire chief at Alameda Naval base in California. He was only 19 years old when he earned the assignment.

Bob enjoyed a long and varied career with over 70 years in management, marketing, and leadership positions at all levels of business. Among the highlights: as President of Steelcraft Manufacturing Company, a leading maker of steel doors and frames. He grew the business to include 14 other companies. After selling Steelcraft to American Standard Inc., Bob stayed on to serve as a Group Vice President running 12 companies employing some 3,000 employees. During this period, he founded REL Enterprises. The company-owned and operated two Holiday Inns in Broward County and a Sheraton in Boca Raton along with other restaurants and real estate holdings.

Mr. Levinson’s business advice was sought after by individuals and companies. He was a former director of both Pointe Bank and Florida Coast Bank and a regular article contributor to the US Government’s Small Business Administration. Not one to believe in retirement, Bob then embarked on a 25-year career as Senior Development Officer for Lynn University in Boca Raton. He also took great pride in his writing; publishing five books on management with titles including “Super Savvy” and “The Anti-Retirement Book.” Bob was a passionate believer in community service and philanthropy and served on many non-profit boards including President of the Palm Beach County United Way and Vice President of the Boca Museum of Art.

He also served on the Tourist Development Council of Palm Beach County and on the board of the International Association of Holiday Inns. He was extremely active in the greater Cincinnati area as well. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who enjoyed the achievements of his family. He was a lifelong learner with a curious mind and a keen interest in history, politics, current events, and world affairs.

After losing his beloved wife of 62 years Phyllis, he found love late in life with Zelda Luxenberg. They chronicled their romance in the book “Full Circle: A Love Story”. Bob was generous, kind, intelligent and a lover of people, knowledge, and life. He enriched and delighted all those who met him.

He leaves behind his beloved partner of 12 years Zelda, his two sons Jon (Lori) and James (Pam), six grandchildren Loren, Jamie, Jodi, Phillip, Jay, and Alex and nine great-grandchildren Olivia, Jack, Mack, Ford, Mia, Valentina, Victoria, Parker, and Jonah.

Memorial Contributions

Donations in Mr. Levinson’s memory can be made to:

Palm Beach County Food Bank

United Way of Palm Beach County

Lynn University

or a charity of your choosing.

Funeral

Funeral Services are private.

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