Larry Mayer

Larry Mayer, 93, of Worms, Germany, peacefully passed away on June 4. Larry was born to Julius and Alice Mayer. Due to the Holocaust, at the age of 7, Larry and his family (including his second mother Fanny) left for the U.S. They moved to Libertyville in 1943 for his father to have a dairy farm as he did in Germany. Larry was a proud graduate of LIbertyville High School and for many years would have get togethers with his high school buddies.

Larry joined the Navy Reserve in 1949 and joined the Navy full-time in 1953 until 1955. He always laughed that for the Navy, he was stationed in China Lake, CA, which resembles a desert.

Larry had a distinguished career in real estate. He built an incredible company with many clients who trusted him and knew he was the person to call when they needed help. He was a member of the Chicago Real Estate Board and Home Building Association. Larry had a warmth and kindness to him that is irreplaceable. He was a mentor for many people in the real estate field and they all appreciated this about Larry.

Larry was passionate about others and donating to many charities to help these people. He was very proud to be Jewish, making many trips to Israel to visit family and also donated to many Jewish charities.

His love for explorations led to unforgettable journeys with Donna, making a lifetime of memories. He cherished the symphony, theater, Millennium Park, and sports - specifically the Bulls and White Sox. He especially loved being able to discuss sports with Zack. He cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife Donna; caring children Daniel (Myn) Mayer and Stephanie Mayer; cherished grandchildren Zachary (Maima) and Naomi (Allen); treasured great-grandchildren Zoe and Zachary Jr; proud nieces and nephews Alice (Phil), Tali (Uri), Na'ama (Tomer), and Anat (Ben); admired great-nieces and great-nephews David, Rebecca, Noga, Aya, Adam, Danielle, Ido, and Yarden; dear sister-in-law Shosh; and adored caregiver Marvin. He is preceded in death by his first wife Eva, son Jeffrey, brothers Frank (Marion) and Eugene, and nephew Ronald.

Funeral service Monday, June 9, 11AM at Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home, 111 Skokie Blvd, Wilmette, IL 60091. Interment Jewish Oakridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Illinois Holocaust Museum (www.ilholocaustmuseum.org) or the Jewish United Fund (www.juf.org). For info: 847-256-5700