Harold Bloom

Harold Bloom, beloved son, brother, husband, father and grandfather, was born on August 3, 1920 to parents Herman and Jennie Bloom in Jacksonville, Florida and died peacefully at his home on July 3, 2012, at the age of 91. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, artist Renée Bernard Bloom, and his sister Emily Bloom Wurn. He is survived by four children, Ronald Bloom, Carolyn Bloom Bryan (Mel), Philip Bloom (Linda), Jackie Bloom Spiritas (Nathan); five grandchildren, Lauren Bloom, Sasha Bloom, Cameron Spiritas, Brandon Spiritas and Brittany Bloom. “No greater love had he than for his wife and family.”

Harold lived his whole life in Jacksonville and was very active in the community both as a philanthropic citizen and businessman. As a young boy he became very active in Temple Ahavath Chesed’s Boy Scout Troop 12 and earned the prestigious rank of Life Scout. He graduated from Lee High School at the age of 16 and attended college at the University of Florida, graduating in 1941 with honors in Accounting at the age of 20. Harold served his country in the United States Army, was stationed 3 years overseas during World War II, and was honorably discharged from service in 1959 after achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. While actively serving, Harold was instrumental in the success of the famous Red Ball Express which was a convoy of trucks bringing critical supplies to troops after the D-Day invasion. One of his most interesting and proudest memories retold throughout the years was meeting General Patton and shaking his hand. Harold had many stories about his military experience and shared them enthusiastically with his family.

Harold began civilian life as General Superintendent of Setzer’s Stores in San Marco overseeing and managing the operations of several of the grocery locations in Jacksonville and the Beach. In 1956, he became a General Contractor and established Harold Bloom Builders that built residential construction around Jacksonville. From there his interest in building grew and Harold co-founded Blosam Contractors which went on to gain national acclaim for building projects throughout the Southeast. On the personal side, Harold was a devoted and lifelong member of Temple Ahavath Chesed, serving as Temple President from 1982-1984, establishing the Harold Bloom Youth Lounge, the Bloom Family Garden in honor of his parents, and the Harold Bloom Interfaith Endowment Trust for the better understanding between Christians and Jews. He felt strongly about acceptance among religious groups because of his experience with anti-semitism during World War II. Harold was honored to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from Congregation Ahavath Chesed for his dedication, passion, and leadership. He served as President of Beauclerc Country Club from 1967-69 enjoying the pleasures of weekly golf and social activities with family and friends at the Club. Some of Harold’s other honors, awards, and associations include: Vice President of the Florida Builder’s Association, Treasurer of Northeast Florida Association of General Contractors, Chaplain with the Fraternal Order of the Police Associate Members, Master Mason and Shriner with the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Benevolent and protective order of Elks, Treasurer of the Jewish Community Alliance, and earned the Prime Ministers Club Award from the State of Israel. Harold and his beloved Renee enjoyed traveling together around the United States and Europe with friends and family. Harold spent most of his life working whole-heartedly to better whatever organization he was a part of. He was outspoken and fearless in his many roles. He instilled a strong work ethic in his children and encouraged the achievements of others.

Funeral Services will be held at 9:00 am Friday, July 6, 2012 in Congregation Ahavath Chesed, located at 8727 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32217 with Rabbi Joshua B. Lief officiating. Burial will follow in the Temple Cemetery (Temple Gate).

Memorial donations may be made to the Harold Bloom Interfaith Endowment Trust of Congregation Ahavath Chesed.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home 4115 Hendricks Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32207. (904) 346-3808. www.hardage-giddenshendricksave.com