Joseph Handleman Obituary

Handleman, Joseph PHILANTHROPIST, HONORARY CHAIRMAN OF ARMDI The officers, Board of Directors and Staff of American Red Magen David for Israel (ARMDI) deeply mourn the passing of our Honorary Chairman at the age of 99. Mr. Handleman served as President, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Chairman of the International Committee of Magen David Adom. Through his leadership the people of Israel have modern emergency medical and blood services. Mr. Handleman had close ties to Chicago with his colleague Milton Lambert. Mr. Lambert was the long term President of the Chicago Chapter of ARMDI and its National Vice-President. Both he and Mr. Handleman work together to lay the groundwork for many of the organization's projects. Joe would often say "You have to take advantage of all of life's challenges." This perspective coupled with his love of the Jewish people and Israel led to the building of the ARMDI-Magen David Adom Blood Services Center, the only such center in Israel. In 1985 Mr. Handleman and his wife Sally, commissioned sculptor Nathan Rapoport to do the powerful " Brotherhood of Man" sculpture which today is in the Handleman Plaza in front of the ARMDI-Magen David Adom National Blood Services Center in Ramat, Gan, Israel. Mr. Handleman was an internationally known management and sales consultant. He was a pioneer in the distribution of health and beauty products to the supermarket industry. Handleman Company was founded in 1934 in Detroit, Michigan and today remains an industry leader. For more than 25 years his close contact, wise counsel and astute judgment helped American Red Magen David Adom become the main diaspora supporter of Magen David Adom Israel. It was his vision that has enabled ARMDI and the American Jewish community to help insure safety for all the citizens of Israel. Mr. Handleman is survived by his wife of 69 years, Sally (Kabaker); his children Joan Sadoff( Dr. Robert) Joyce Mueller (Hans) and Lynn Handleman; His brother and , business partner, David Handleman of Detroit, 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. May his memory be for a blessing. At the family's request, contributions may be made to American Red Magen David for Israel (ARMDI) 1 E. Wacker Dr., Suite 2224, Chicago, IL. 60601. 312 494-1902. Baruch Dayan Emet. Diane Israel, President, ARMDI Midwest Region – American Red Magen David for Israel Sandra Rosen, Executive Director, ARMDI Midwest Region Mark Lebow, ARMDI National President Daniel R. Allen, ARMDI National Executive Vice President