Isaac Zelcer May 18, 1935 - February 6, 2023
Bal Harbour, Florida
Isaac Zelcer, 88, a shining light in the lives of all who knew him, passed away on February 6, 2023. Born in Havana, Cuba, Isaac immigrated with his wife, Loly, and his young family to New York in 1960. He worked hard to build a new life, and through his humility, persistence, and intelligence, Isaac found success in the neckwear business. Upon moving to Miami in 1980, Isaac fulfilled his dream of starting and growing his own company, Isaco International, a designer and manufacturer of ties and men’s accessories.
Isaac lived by the words: “The more I give, the more I get back.” He was dedicated to serving the community about which he cared so deeply. In 1996, he was nominated as the first Cuban president of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation and remained involved as a life member. Isaac also served on the boards of Florida International University, Mount Sinai Medical Center, American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, and Temple Menorah. The United Way of Miami honored Isaac with the Tocqueville Award for Outstanding Philanthropy, which was engraved with the most fitting words to describe him: “One who made a difference.” His commitment to helping others was boundless.
As much as he achieved, Isaac was most proud of the beautiful family, friends, and community he built. He and his wife of over 67 years, Loly, shared a lifetime of love, respect, devotion, and happiness and set the bar for what a true partnership looks like. Isaac cherished time with his family and showed them unwavering love and support each and every day. He found joy in bringing everyone together for holidays and other celebrations, which were always filled with lively conversation and laughter. His special warmth, kindness, and generosity will forever be remembered and deeply loved. May Isaac’s name be blessed and his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continue his remarkable legacy.
Isaac is survived by his wife, Loly; his three children, Alan Zelcer (Ruth), Elena Zelcer Feldenkreis (Oscar), and Robin Zelcer Alman (Richard); nine grandchildren, Jennifer (Uzi), Erica (Albert), Stephanie (Alexander), Samantha (Stephen), Rebecca, Jacqueline, Zachary, Joshua, and Sarah; nine great-grandchildren, Hailey, Elizabeth, Henry, James, Moshe, Miriam, Meir, Leya, and Malkah; brother, Sergio Zelcer (Rosita); and brother-in-law, Bernardo Shaftal (Perla).
The family requests donations be made in memory of Isaac Zelcer to Temple Menorah, https://www.templemenorahmiami.org.
Chapel Service will be held TODAY, Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 11:00 am at Levitt-Weinstein Blasberg-Rubin-Zilbert Memorial Chapel, 18840 W. Dixie Hwy., N. Miami Beach (305) 932-2700