Irving I. Nathan passed away on October 30, 2006 four days shy of his 94th birthday.
He was born November 4, 1912 to Annette Levy Nathan and J.J. Nathan. His father established Nathan’s Department Store, at one time reputed to be larger than Macy’s and Gimbel’s. Following in his father’s entrepreneurial footsteps he created a millinery business which enjoyed the reputation of being the 3rd largest chain in the United States. With the advent of bouffant hairstyles his career was transformed into the cosmetic business which evolved into over 500 studios in 32 states and Puerto Rico. He also enjoyed spending time investing in real estate and participating in and benefiting from the future growth of Beaumont.
He was a graduate of Beaumont High School and attended the University of Texas for five years until the great depression after which he returned home to take care of his family. He possessed a state award winning operatic tenor voice and for many years performed in the Knights of Columbus Policeman’s Benefit where his imitation of Al Jolson was legendary. A great father and devoted grand father he enjoyed everyone coming to his home to eat a traditional Sunday lunch seated around the dining room table, involving lively conversation, and followed by an afternoon watching football with his grand children. Sadie and Irving gave unselfishly of their time to others which resulted in lifelong friendships.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years, Sadie Sharfstein Nathan. The love, devotion, sacrifices and loyalty to their families were unparalleled and provided sustenance and security which was a treasured possession shared by all. The “Nathan” family vacations across the United States were followed by wonderful summer months in Colorado. Exciting trips to Las Vegas provided a unique change of pace.
Surviving are his son and daughter, Jerry and Iris Nathan; his grand daughter, Allison Nathan Golias; and grandson, Irl Nathan and wife Tica Nathan; his great grandchildren, Lee and Buffin Golias and Zoë and Jake Nathan; nephew, Rabbi Henry and Edna Cohen; cousins, Lois and Norman Szafir, Susan and Martin Goldman; and trusted associate Wilhelmina Sweet.
Heartfelt special thanks to Dr. Palang, Christus St. Elizabeth, Odyssey Hospice, Accent Home Health Care, his special care givers Barbara, Claudette, Gladys, Lena, Margaret, and Orelia. We are grateful for the years of enjoyment shared at his business with Cindy, Cherry, Bobbie, and Sharon.
Graveside services will be 3:00 P.M. Thursday, November 2, 2006 at Hebrew Rest Cemetery under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive. Serving as pallbearers will be Howard Bundy, Dr. Hal Clarke, Benny Hughes, Jerry Klein, Dr. Jack McNeill, Bill Neild, Lip Norvell, Robert Robertson, and Wilton White. Honorary Pallbearers will be R.T. Fertitta, Mary Meyers, Sam Parigi, Aubrey Webb.
A gathering of his family and friends will be Wednesday evening November 1, 2006 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to charity of your choice.
