Alfred Markowitz

January 5, 1927 - October 13, 2020

Alfred (Al) Markowitz of Naples, FL passed away on Tuesday, October 13 at his home. For over fifty-five years, he was the devoted husband of Ann Markowitz and loving uncle of Barry Markowitz (Jana), Jean Markowitz, the late Lynn Struttmann (Tim), Rita Markowitz Schreiber (Bill) and Edward Markowitz. He also leaves a number of great nieces and nephews. Al was a graduate of Southside High School in Memphis, TN. After serving in the U.S. Army for 17 months in 1945/46, he completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Memphis (then Memphis State) and earned an MBA from the University of Denver in 1951. After 36 years in buying and marketing management with Sears national headquarters in Chicago, he retired in 1987 and volunteered with the Executive Service Corps of Chicago, working with school principals as part of the Chicago Public School Reform initiative. Moving to Florida on a permanent basis in 2001, in addition to continuing to widely travel with Ann, Al pursued his passion for golf, good naturedly accepting the accompanying frustration. Continuing a lifelong interest in flying, he was also an active member of the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) which, at the local level, seeks to interest youths in the aviation field. Intellectually curious, he looked forward to and was an active participant his condo building's monthly Monday morning men's coffee group where members gave presentations on disparate subjects. Al's body of knowledge and ability to recall and discuss in detail a wide variety of subjects was astounding. Even more impressive was the universal acknowledgement among family, friends and business associates that he was always and without fail, an honorable man and a gentleman. He was kind and gracious to everyone, displayed a sense of humanity that guided everything he did, and always showed optimism and resilience when faced with life's difficulties. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the organization of one's choice.