Donald Saltzman, 93

Donald Saltzman, 93, of Weston, CT, formerly of Hewlett Harbor, NY, finally used up his nine lives and passed away on May 13.

Throughout his long and gregarious life, he was a television producer, advertising executive, elected official, recreational pilot, investor, antique dealer, (non-certified) physician, short-order cook, (unofficial) Stew Leonard's manager, restorer of classic cars, Frank Sinatra enthusiast, and ice cream expert. What he will be missed most for, however, was his deep love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Known for his storytelling, Donald lived a life worth repeating (and, often, repeating again).

A product of Brooklyn, NY, after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1954, he served in the United States Army Command Section in Governors Island through the end of the war.

Much to his father’s dismay, he turned down law school to enter the nascent broadcast industry, first securing a position at NBC before co-developing the Addams Family television series.

Through these experiences, and the many unique characters he worked with, Donald developed a lifelong affinity for film and television. A longtime admirer (and, alleged friend) of Walt Disney, his home was filled with film prints and other memorabilia. An emphatic rule in his household was that every room deserved a television, and it should be as big as possible.

Later, he worked in advertising at PKL and Compton, producing shows and advertisements on behalf of clients like Xerox, Quaker Oats, and American Motors-Jeep.

After retiring in 1983, he began a second career in civic and community service. He served his state and town in a variety of elected and appointed roles, including as Chairman of the Statewide TV Council, Chairman of the Weston Zoning Board of Appeals, and as a longtime Justice of the Peace. He took particular pride in officiating weddings for generations of young couples in town and refusing payment.

Alongside his wife Carole, he travelled across the United States visiting his children and grandchildren, along the way discovering vintage markets to fill their prized “barn” full of antiques.

After surviving a serious heart condition, he credited the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Vincent’s Medical Center for saving his life, and devoted himself to serving the hospital and patients. He counseled cardiac surgery patients and served on the boards of the SVMC Foundation and for Saint Vincent’s College. What he was most proud of, was being the literal “poster child” for the organization, via a life-sized promotional cutout of himself.

He is survived by his loving family: son Stephen (Sheila) Saltzman, daughter Jacqueline (Mitchell) Kon, sister Judy (Monroe) Kaufmann, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Carole and son, Lee Saltzman.

A private funeral service was held Sunday, May 17. As someone who ensured that everyone was well fed, donations in his memory can be sent to the Weston Food Bank. (www.westonfoodpantry.com)