Irwin Grossman

Irwin was born in Paris, Texas on June 25, 1931, and his family moved to Dallas when he was 5 years old. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1948. He then attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he graduated with an Engineering degree in 1952. He felt as if MIT opened the world to him. He dearly loved the school and actively supported it throughout his life. He was one of the founding members of the MIT Center for Real Estate. Irwin was a real estate developer for over 60 years. He helped construct many notable buildings in Dallas including The Dallas Garden Center at Fair Park; Temple Emanu-El Youth building and various additions; the chapel and mausoleum at Temple Emanu-El Cemetery; Greenhill School's original Preschool, Lower School and Middle School buildings as well as the Zale-Fields theatre; several buildings at the Dallas Home for Jewish Aged; and numerous warehouses, shopping centers, and office buildings. He served on the building committees for the Zale Lipshy Hospital, Dallas Museum of Art and KERA.

In his quiet and unassuming way he contributed his knowledge and keen insights to the city of Dallas. He served as President of the Board of Temple Emanu-El; Chairman of the Board of North Texas Public Television and Radio; Chairman of the Board of Greenhill School, President of Golden Acres, Vice President of Jewish Federation of Dallas; Board of Governors of the Hebrew Union College; and Board of Visitors at UT Southwestern. He was also a member of the Citizens Council and Salesmanship Club of Dallas.

Irwin lived life to the fullest. He loved reading the New York Times, and his day was not complete until he finished the crossword puzzle. He loved playing tennis, skiing and most of all, sailing. He also loved Nantucket, which was like a second home for over 30 years. He was an avid reader. He loved music, especially classical and jazz. He enjoyed going to the symphony and his men’s luncheon groups. He loved good wine, good cigars, and driving his Porsche. The family wishes to thank all of his doctors who were not only trusted caregivers but dear friends. He is survived by his loving wife Irma, of 55 years, his son Doug Grossman and wife Irene, daughter Julie Kronick and husband David, and grandchildren Rebecca and Rachel Grossman and Isabelle and Anna Kronick.

The memorial service will be held Monday, February 13 at 11:30 am at Temple Emanu-El in Olan Sanctuary. The family will receive condolences in Tobian Auditorium following the the service. Donations may be made to Temple Emanu-El Dora Aronson Helping Hands Fund or the Grossman Fund for Diabetes Research at UT Southwestern.