Paul Louis Glosser

Paul Louis Glosser, aged 91, passed away on Sunday August 22, 2021 in Sarasota, Florida. Paul lived a life of love, laughter, travel, and adventure and most of all, of family. Paul was an avid fisherman, golfer, NY Times crossword puzzler, red wine drinker, Jeopardy! watcher, and, most importantly, a Steeler fan. Paul was known as the toastmaster and raconteur who always led the family in games like “Simon Says”, and the ritual song and chant “Ainum Banum.” Paul was philanthropically involved in many Johnstown, Sarasota, and Jewish charities.

Paul was born in Johnstown, PA on January 22, 1930, the son of Sylvia and David Glosser. He was the last remaining sibling with four older sisters, Ruth Quittner, Betty Black, Doris Rudolph, and Naomi Cohen. Paul is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Rita Gordon Glosser, his four children, David (Stephanie), Andy (Vickie), Richard (Cathy), and Amy (Janno), ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Paul was an executive at Glosser Bros, the family-owned regional department store chain, where he ran the 15- store supermarket division. Paul has lived in Sarasota for the past thirty years since his retirement.

Paul grew up in Johnstown, but as his parents’ snow birded to Miami Beach, he followed and graduated from Miami Beach High School. He spent his freshman year at Syracuse University before transferring and graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in 1951. While at a fraternity social at Pitt, Paul saw the most beautiful woman across the room, Rita, who became the love of his life. After college, Paul served as a Supply Sargent in the US Army during the Korean War from 1952-1954 and married Rita upon his return from service. Paul and Rita built a family based on love, togetherness, and mutual respect to the end.

Paul lived a life without judgement, with joy and a sparkle in his eye, and brought a curiosity and sense of morality to everything. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends and remembered for a life lived in full.

Donations in Paul's memory can be sent to Jewish Family & Children’s Services of the Suncoast at www.jfcs-cares.org or mailed to JFCS, 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237.