Native Beaumonter Arthur Greenspan, 87, died peacefully on October 5, 2010. His signature optimism remained with him throughout the duration of his life. Born May 9, 1923, as the only son of Morris and Clara Greenspan, Russian immigrants who entered the United States through Ellis Island. They instilled in him a love of Judaism which he imparted to his children.
Arthur was first and foremost a loving family man and will be remembered for his charismatic personality, love of his accounting profession and sincere interest in the lives of others. He constantly encouraged people to further their education and mentored many in the process. He provided leadership to the community through his presidency of the Texas Society of CPA’s and Congregation Kol Israel, as well as other civic pursuits including service as a Council member of AICPA and the Accounting Advisory Council at UT.
At 19, as Captain of his squadron, Arthur fought bravely for his country during World War II flying 29 combat missions as a B-17 pilot. After the war he completed his masters degree with a major in accounting at the University of Texas at Austin, where he also was an instructor.
He soon earned license Number 1867 as a Certified Public Accountant for the State of Texas and later earned the Distinguished Service Award to the accounting profession, their highest honor. When not visiting his children and grandchildren or attending UT football games, he enjoyed his time at the office serving his long-time clients most of whom had been with him since his practice began in the 1950’s.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Evelyn and Rae; and nephew, Wayne.
He is survived by his college sweetheart and wife of fifty-nine years, Peggy Greenspan, their five children, Marcus, Kim, Renee, Jan Greenspan and Garry Starr; seven grandchildren Chris, Brian, David, Karen, Emily, Ariana and Ian; his great grandson, Aaron; nephews, Paul and Kirby; and nieces, Karen, Sherry and Tracie and their families.
His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 8, 2010, at Temple Emanuel, 1120 Broadway Street, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. A gathering of his family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 7, 2010, at Broussard’s.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lamar University Foundation for the Arthur Greenspan Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 11500 Beaumont, Texas 77710 or to Temple Emanuel, Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund, 1120 Broadway Street, Beaumont Texas 77701.
