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David

(Theodore)

Chase

Obituary

David Theodore Chase (aged 88) of West Hartford, CT, founder and president of Chase Enterprises, passed away at his home on June 1st, 2016. Born in Kielce, Poland, he was the son of Leon and Helen Ciesla. David was a Holocaust survivor, lifelong entrepreneur, and philanthropist. David arrived in the United States as a teenager after surviving the Auschwitz, Sachsenhausen, and Mauthausen concentration camps. During the Holocaust, David and his sister Helen lost their parents and younger sister in addition to many other family members.

After graduating from Weaver High School in Hartford, CT and transferring from Hillyer College to the UCONN prelaw program, David met the love of his life, Rhoda Cohen. David would frequently remark that the first time he saw Rhoda he felt a thunderbolt strike him and he knew that she would be the woman he would marry. David credits Rhoda with having the most influential impact on his life and in guiding him to be the man that he would become. She was a constant source of encouragement that he be a man of honesty and integrity.

David’s career spanned many different industries including commercial real estate, banking, telecommunications, construction, manufacturing, and hotels. David played a leading role in developing the Hartford skyline and reinvigorating downtown Hartford in the 1970s and 1980s with the construction of the “Gold Building”, One Corporate Center, known as the Stilts Building and 280 Trumbull Street. David also built New Haven’s Connecticut Financial Center, which is the tallest building in New Haven. David developed many shopping centers across the nation, including pioneering the development of Topps Department stores in the 1950s. David was an investor in several regional banks including South End Bank and Trust, First National Bank of Enfield, which ultimately became the First International Bank. David was one of the first Americans to invest in Poland after the fall of the Berlin Wall, owing much to his friendship with Pope John Paul II, who asked that he return to Poland to help their transition from Communism to Capitalism. His Polish investments included the first Polish-American owned bank, paving the way for his revolutionary infrastructure investment, which brought cable television to Poland.

David’s tireless philanthropic work spanned across many different religious, medical, and societal causes. As a man of Jewish faith he was dedicated to the people of Israel and victims of the Holocaust. David co-founded the United States Holocaust Museum in Washington DC, led fund raising efforts for Yad Vashem, and was heavily involved with the Rabbinical College of America, as well as supporting numerous hospitals and universities in Israel. Through his career, he was awarded numerous honorary Doctorate degrees. He crossed religious barriers with his work for the Foundation for the Advancement of Catholic Schools (FACS), strongly supported the Anti-Defamation League, and worked with the Red Cross to support both Israel’s Maghen David Adom and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. His philanthropic works led to friendships with successive presidents and religious leaders including Jimmy Carter, Lech Walesa, and the late Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneersohn and he was immensely proud to be able to contribute and serve the United States at every opportunity. David was a family man and loving person that believed in everyone’s ability to do good and better themselves.

David is survived by his wife Rhoda Chase of West Hartford; his son Arnold Chase and his wife Sandra of West Hartford; daughter Cheryl Chase and her husband Judge Stuart Bear of West Hartford; his grandchildren William Chase and wife Dr. Lauren Kopyt Chase of West Hartford; Dara Dyer and husband Ross Dyer of West Hartford; Sara Chase of New York City; Allison Chase of New York City; Melissa Chase of New York City; and Landon Chase of Bloomfield; and great-grandchildren Dylan and Riley Dyer of West Hartford; and Samuel Chase of West Hartford.

The funeral service will be Sunday, June 5th at 2PM at Congregation Beth Israel located at 701 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford, CT.

Interment will follow the service at Congregation Beth Israel Cemetery, 27 Jackson Street, Avon, CT.

The Shiva will take place after the Interment at Congregation Beth Israel in Haas Hall / Feldman Hall.

Memorial Donations may be made to the UCONN Health Center, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Ct 06032 Arrangements are entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford, CT. For further information, directions, or to sign the guest book for David, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com/funerals.cfm

Funeral

Deceased On:

Thursday, January 1, 1970

Service Date:

Thursday, January 1, 1970

Guest Book For

David Chase

(Theodore)

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From: Carolyn Hoffman

From West Palm Beach, Fl

Posted On: June 10, 2016

Dear Rhoda, Cheryl and Family,
I was so saddened by the news.
Many heartfelt thoughts and prayers sent your way.
Sending you all lots of love at this difficult time.
Carolyn Hoffman
Escada

From: Marie Bloom Deckert

From West Palm Beach, FL

Posted On: June 12, 2016

Dear Mrs. Chase and family: Please accept my sincere and heartfelt sympathy on your loss. There are angels walking among us here on earth and Mr. David Chase was one of them! I will never forget his patience, his humanness and his spirituality. Being of Polish ancestry, I was honored and humbled to learn of his background, his intelligence, humility, and love not only for his family, but for his employees, business colleagues, fellow man, and life itself! Thank you, Mr. Chase, for making our world a kinder, gentler, and better place. I can picture you being welcomed with open arms in heaven by all(including the late Pope John Paul), who are celebrating that you have finally joined them. Thank you for your amazing and well-lived time on this earth! Marie Bloom Deckert

From: Gail Mizner

From Lexington, MA

Posted On: June 8, 2016

To Cheryl:
We were classmates at Tufts. I am sorry to read about your father's death. He sounds like a wonderful man and father. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

From: Neurology Department at Univ of Miiami

From Miami, Fl

Posted On: June 8, 2016

Wishing deep condolences from Dr, Carlos Singer, Dr Ralph Sacco, Chairman and Susan Fox Rosellini at University of Miami Department of Neurology.

From: Martin Ungar

From Old Saybrook, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

So sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved husband and father. He was a Hartford icon with a great legacy. I remember when I first moved to Hartford and he was building on Trumbull and Church ST. It was Sukkot and no one was working.When I made a remark to someone I was told he didn't build on Jewish Holidays. I thought, how cool is that? He will be missed.

From: Marla Helene

From New York, NY

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Our thoughts and love are with you during this difficult time.
May David be in heaven playing cards with Jack , Irving and Burton !
Marla and Alan Helene

From: Nancy Kasden Talsky

From Pompano Beach, FL

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Dear Chase Family, I was saddened to learn of the passing of your beloved family patriarch, David T. Chase. May your grief be lessened by the knowledge that he lived a full and productive life and was highly respected here and abroad.
My thoughts are with all of you. Nancy Kasden Talsky, Cousin of Stuart Bear

From: Connie Hauk

From Portland, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

My sincere condolences to Rhoda and the Chase family.

From: Karen Poulin

From West Hartford, Ct

Posted On: June 3, 2016

I was honored to meet David Chase through his son Arnold Chase when Arnold was my boss at WTIC-TV Channel 61 late 1980's - 1990's. I had such respect for David for what he had accomplished during his life. Arnold I will never forget you as my boss either. Respectfully, Karen Poulin

From: Judi & Phil Siegal

From Ocala, Fl

Posted On: June 3, 2016

We were saddened to hear of Uncle Dave's passing. He was a generous and loving man and did so much for the Hartford community. Phil and I send our sincere condolences to the entire family.

From: henry jacobs MD JD

From Bloomfield, Connecticut

Posted On: June 3, 2016

To Rhoda: my parents, had they survived, would have wanted to offer you their condolences. So I wish you peace and solace in your bereavement upon the loss of your remarkably accomplished husband David. His achievements defy the tremendous challenges he endured. In a world that generates billionaires from dotcoms, unbelievable perseverance, brilliance and courage in the face of tragedy must seem very foreign, but he will remain as an icon of success.

From: Richard and Lucille Remirez

From Tampa, Florida

Posted On: June 4, 2016

Dear Rhoda, Cheryl and Arnold.
It seems the deepest feelings are the hardest to convey. Please
know that you and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time of sorrow. David will never be forgotten.

From: Mr. & Mrs. Vincent A. Kalinauskas

From Manchester, CT

Posted On: June 4, 2016

Dear Rhoda and family,
We extend our sincerest sympathies. The story of David's life, determination and accomplishments has long been recounted during our family gatherings. To have known him in the early years and occasionally seeing him in later years, even in his greatness he was always humble, unassuming and a gentle man. The world will miss David. - Vinny Kalinauskas

From: Neil Portnoy

From Kittery, ME

Posted On: June 4, 2016

Dear Arnold, Cheryl, and the entire Chase family,

So sorry to hear of your loss. Your father will be remembered well for the great life he led. My warmest thoughts are with you.

Neil Portnoy

From: Dr. Bennett Miller

From Atlantis, FL.

Posted On: June 4, 2016

He was a remarkable man - more than just a survivor.

From: Timothy McLaughlin,MD and Marian Kellner,MD

From Farmington, CT, CT

Posted On: June 4, 2016

We thank God for David Chase's presence in our lives. He supported numerous worthy charitable causes in the 15 years we knew him, and we are particularly grateful for his support of the arts in the greater Hartford region. We believe his generosity made life better for all of us living here. The Chase Family Building at the NewBritain Museum of Art is tangible evidence in David's belief in the power of giving, but he gave so much more that is not seen.
David's greatest legacy is his family, who continue his good works. With Rhoda, Cheryl and Stuart, Arnold and Sandy, and all his grandchildren we mourn his loss. His life was an example for us to emulate, and it was an honor to have known him. David Chase's memory is a blessing for our community.
With sadness, Tim and Marian

From: Susan K Ratzan M.D.

From West Hartford, CT

Posted On: June 4, 2016

My heartfelt sympathy to the entire Chase family on the passing of their husband, father, grandfather and friend, David Chase. I will be forever appreciative of his recognition of the Connecticut Program for Children with Diabetes with the establishment of the Chase Family Chair in Juvenile Diabetes at the UConn Health Center in 1984. Thank you David.

From: David Brody and Bryan Frankel

From St Petersburg, FL

Posted On: June 5, 2016

We have wonderful memories while visiting the family on the boat when in New York City.

From: Edythe White

From West Hartford, CT

Posted On: June 5, 2016

I have known David and Rhoda Chase as wonderful friends having met them approximately 50 years ago. My deepest condolences to Rhoda, Arnold, Cheryl and their families. David will be remembered as an extraordinary person and friend.

Edie White
- See more at: http://m.legacy.com/guestbooks/hartfordcourant/guestbook.aspx?n=David-T-Chase&pid=180202492#sthash.SUmqWTR9.dpuf

From: Charlotte Farber

From Aventura, Fl

Posted On: June 5, 2016

My Family will always remember all you love and kindess.

From: Dick Bertel

From Gaithersburg, MD

Posted On: June 5, 2016

I read with great sadness today of the death of David Chase,for whom I worked when he owned WTIC Radio. He had purchased the station from the Travelers Insurance Company in 1974. I admired him for the great respect he held for this Hartford institution. He was always kind and thoughtful to me and, on my last night at the station before moving to Washington he came in to shake my hand and wish me good luck. Thank you, David.

From: Cal Caldarella

From Old Saybrook, Ct

Posted On: June 6, 2016

With sincere sympathy to the Chase family and
great appreciation of David's accomplishments.

From: Carole A. Cohen

From Enfield, Connecticut

Posted On: June 2, 2016

Unfortunately, I never had the honor of knowing David. After I
read his Obituary, I was just in awe of the many different positions he held and numerous, remarkable people he had contact
throughout his life. An amazing gentleman!
I am so sorry for your sadness, but only hope and pray the many
memories you all hold dear to your heart, will be of comfort to you.
My condolences. Carole Cohen (originally from West Hartford)

From: Robin Santiago

From West Hartford, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

A remarkable man, a remarkable life - his memory will be for a blessing for your family and our community. Rafi and I send our deepest condolences to you on your loss.

From: Mimi Greenberg

From Simsbury, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

David was the first person to arrive at our home when our father passed away. He was a very good friend to the Greenberg family, and losing such a great man will be a missing piece, not only in the Chase family, but in the entire community. He was kind, respected, and brilliant. I am so sorry for your loss. May your memories of David bring you peace in this difficult time, knowing he was indeed a person who made a great difference throughout his lifetime.

From: Jay Leipzig and Cindy Chazan

From Weat Orange, NN

Posted On: June 3, 2016

We send our heartfelt sympathies to the entire family. David was a significant factor in the growth and strength of the Greater Harrford Jewish Community

From: Judith Willett

From Old Saybrook, Ct.

Posted On: June 3, 2016

A wonderful human being, we need more like him.

From: Sisters Maureen and Thetesa

From Hartford, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

We met David Chase in 1983 as the House of Bread was in need of support. Mr. Chase graciously responded to our request with some financial assistance. He cared for the needy and helped us serve breakfast at our Soup Kitchen. We are grateful to have known Mr. Chase. He is now at Peace with his God.

Sister Maureen Faenza Sister Theresa Fonti

From: Gloria McAdam

From Canton, NY

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Rhoda, Cheryl, and Arnold -

So sorry to hear of your loss. May you be comforted by your many memories of David in the coming days.

A favorite memory of mine was giving a tour of the Foodshare distribution center - the tour did not follow my usual agenda, but was rather directed by David's insightful questions! I guess I answered them well, because when we were done, he asked if I wanted to come to work for him!

Gloria McAdam

From: David R. Chozick

From Delray Beach, FL

Posted On: June 3, 2016

You were one that put Jews on the map and will be remembered and missed very much. When you come to Hartford you are greeted by a Chase building. You are part of everything and will truly be missed.
Love
Dave Chozick

From: Sandra Ferreira-Soares

From West Hartford, Connecticut

Posted On: June 3, 2016

My deepest sympathies go out to you, Mrs. Chase and your family. Mr. Chase was very dear in my mother, Maria's, life. May God give you the peace that you seek.

From: Ellen Firestone Merriman

From Granada Hills, CA

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Dear Rhoda, Arnold, Cheryl and Chase family. I was saddened to learn of Davids's passing. Rhoda, I have many memories of him staring from when I was a child and visiting your small apartment in New Britain to the last time I saw you both during Shiva for my mom 16 years ago. Please accept my deepest condolences.

From: Richard Walden

From Fairfield, Ct

Posted On: June 3, 2016

David was truly a man of honor and integrity and at the lowest points he shined the brightest. It was an honor to work with him and the lessons I learned in the late eighties during the financial crisis are ones that have stuck with me forever. Blessed to have known him and warmest wishes and thoughts on his passing

From: Robert Birnbaum

From West hartford, Ct

Posted On: June 3, 2016

A .wonderful man and a great citizen. The community will miss him.

From: Robert Scandura

From Wethersfield, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

When I was attending UCONN I worked at the Hilton Hotel in Hartford as a security guard to make extra money. I was very fortunate to have met Mr. Chase on several occasions.

He always took the time to speak with me and offer advice on life and how to become successful. He made a point to let me know that no matter how successful I may become to make sure that I help others as well. Great advice from a great man.
Fast forward to 2012. My mother and I were operating a successful homecare agency when we received a call from the Chase family concerning their father,Mr. David Chase.
It was my turn to return the favor. I was both honored and felt privileged to provide homecare services for Mr. Chase. He was an amazing man that I was most fortunate to have met and gain knowledge and wisdom from.
God Bless and thank-you Mr. Chase

Robert Scandura
Right at Home homecare

From: Bernard J. Zahren

From Avon, Ct

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Deepest Sympathies for a great business leader and very generous contributor to so many local charities and needs around the world.

Bernie

From: David Jacobs

From West Hartford, CT

Posted On: June 3, 2016

Our community here in greater Hartford, and communities throughout the US and around the world have benefited from David’s vision, leadership and generosity. I remember the role he played in the creation of the Holocaust Memorial at the Jewish Community Center, and the personal connection he had with its design. It is but one of his countless contributions to the community. My sympathies to Rhoda, Arnold, Cheryl and the Chase family.

From: Richard H. Seidman

From Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Posted On: June 2, 2016

David Chase was a close friend of mine and of my late father, Judge Saul Seidman. He was a loyal friend to all whom he met, always remembering his roots and those whom he met his lifetime. He helped ALL whose paths he crossed, the fortunate and the not so fortunate. I would see him in West Hartford as well as in Palm Beach. He never forgot the good fortune and the hardships he encountered along the way. His Life was truly "For a Blessing!"

From: Sid Rabin

From Ellington, Ct.

Posted On: June 2, 2016

My most sincere condolinces to the entire Chase family.

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