David Morris Saks

He loved the city and its rich culture, having spent much of his life in San Antonio and along the Texas border.

Mr. Saks was born in Detroit, Michigan.

During World War II, he served as a radio operator/gunner on an Air Sea Rescue B-24.

After the war, he moved to Texas where he began his career in retail.

A life-long salesman and promoter, he went on to serve as vice president of several companies, operating retail department stores along the border, first, for Aaronson Bros. Department Stores, in the 1950's, and in the 1960's for Bern's Department Stores.

As president of Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers, he saw the chain grow from 5 to 72 stores throughout the southeast and southwest United States San Antonio based.

He was a founder and CEO of the Builder's Square Home Improvement Stores, and was also a founder of the Eyemaster's Optical Stores.

He was a founder of Express Cash Pawn Shops, later sold to Cash America.

His real estate ventures were extensive and included the development of many retail centers, office buildings and land holdings.

His projects extended to Austin, Corpus Christi, El Paso, and Alabama.

The flagship projects were the acquisition and re-development of South Park Mall and Las Palmas Shopping Centers as well as the development of the high-rise KCI Tower.

He was involved in the development of three other office buildings in the Medical center as well as numerous other developments throughout San Antonio.

He was particularly proud of his projects that touched on the Southside and Westside of the city.

Mr. Saks served as co-chairman of The United Fund Drive for San Antonio in the early 80's.

He was a major contributor to the San Antonio Arthritis Foundation in affiliation with UTSA, the San Antonio Library, the Catholic Church and affiliated organizations, and twice recipient of San Antonio's Citation Award.

He was also a fund raiser for the Leukemia Foundation in the mid 80's.

He is survived by his wife, Eleanor Scott-Saks; sons, Michael Saks, Ronny Saks, Ken Saks, Carl Saks, Elliott Saks, Christopher Scott, Landon Scott; daughters, Sharon Gappelberg, Deborah Marlin, Elise Saks; and eleven grandchildren.