Celebrating the life of
Leopold Adler, II
April 18, 1923 - January 30, 2012
Savannah- Lee Adler, a native Savannahian, born April 18, 1923, died peacefully at The Oaks on Skidaway Island, January 29, 2012. He is the son of Sam G. Adler and Elinor Grunsfeld Adler. His grandfather, Leopold Adler, came to Savannah in the 19th Century and founded Adler's Department Store which was located on the southeast corner of Bull and Broughton Streets.
Lee Adler attended the Pape School in Savannah, Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA and is a graduate of the University of Georgia. He served in the U.S. Naval Air Corps during World War II. He worked at Adler's for a few years before devoting his business career to investment banking at Varnedoe-Chisholm/Robinson Humphrey.
His avocation was historic preservation. He served as president of Historic Savannah Foundation for six years and was also a Trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation where he received the Louise Dupont Crowninshield Award, the Trust's highest honor. He was a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, presented by George H.W. Bush in 1989. He spoke on historic preservation in 38 states and in the following countries: England, Ireland, Japan, Ecuador and Peru.
Mr. Adler founded Savannah Landmark, Inc., an organization dedicated to providing safe affordable housing for low-income residents. In Washington, D.C. he gave a presentation on this organization at a meeting arranged for Prince Charles, who was interested in this endeavor.
He loved his family and many friends. His enthusiasm and love of life showed itself in the following activities: fishing, hunting, tennis and golf. Many remember his adventures in the gulfstream in his boat, The Sweet Potato, and his classic dove hunts at the family's farm in South Carolina. He traveled with his family in 42 countries, taking excellent pictures in exotic places. There was never a dull moment.
Surviving members of his immediate family are: his wife of 58 years, Emma Morel Adler, a son, John Morel Adler and his wife, Leigh Ann Davidson Adler of Fernandina Beach, Florida, and grandchildren, Margaret L. Adler and Leopold Lee Adler, IV of Savannah; a brother, Sam G. Adler, Jr. of Leawood, Kansas, a niece, Samantha Dinsmore of Palo Alto, CA; and a nephew, Robert G. Adler, also of Palo Alto.
Remembrances may be sent to Music Activities at The Oaks, 95 Skidaway Island Park Road, Savannah, GA 31411 or Historic Savannah Foundation, P.O. Box 1733, Savannah, GA 31402, or to the charity of your choice.
There will be a private graveside service at Bonaventure Cemetery with Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel in charge.
Shirley & I are full of memories of Lee & Emma and thanks for their many kindnesses. We will miss Lee and send solace to Emma
- Irving C. Sheldon, Saunderstown, RI
Dear Emma, I am so sorry to read of Lees passing.There was a time when the two of you were such influential people in my life. He did so much for his love, Savannah and he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to you. Fondly, Kitty
- Katharine Cook, Bluffton, SC
Dear Emma, I was deeply saddened to learn of Lee’s passing. Our sweet Savannah, like countless towns across the country, owes much of its enduring beauty and grandeur to Lee’s unwavering passion for preservation. Lee’s early support of SCAD helped the university to flourish, and SCAD’s Adler Hall will forever be a monument to his legacy. On behalf of the entire SCAD community, please accept my true condolences for your loss. I wish you and your family strength and solace now and forever. With love and sympathy,
- Paula Wallace, Savannah, GA
We are thinking about you during this very sad time. Please know that we have you in our prayers. Don and Judy Braun
- DON AND JUDY BRAUN, SAVANNAH, GA
Although many have contributed to the preservation of Savannah's unique historical environment, Lee Adler with Emma beside him was the leader responsible for the breadth and significant vision that have given the city its sense of place today. There are so many memories we all can share and I hope we will so something significant in his memory to keep his vision alive.
- Elizabeth A. Lyon Liz, Flowery Branch, GA
Lee was one of the great influences on my life. He mentored me starting in 1973, advised us hugely in our work to restore Historic Galveston TX and was always there with suggestions and support when I became VP, Programs of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. I think of him often, with the greatest gratitude and affection. Peter Brink
- Peter Brink, Norwich, VT
Please, accept my sincerest condolences upon the passing of Mr. Adler. His vital contributions to the greater Savannah community will long be remembered.
- Cynthia Farr Kinkel, Tybee Island, GA
Emma, We are thinking about you in this time of sorrow. -George & Shirley Oelschig
- George & Shirley Oelschig, Savannah, GA
I am so thankful to Lee who got me started in a career that spanned 40 years in historic preservation. He was my true mentor and friend who I respected so much for his paassion , creativity and leadership. If any one person is responsible for what Savannah has become today it is Lee Adler.
- J. Reid Williamson Jr, savannah, GA
Mrs. Adler: My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Mr. Adler was a brilliant man and a real gentleman.
- Philip Saraf, Savannah, GA
SAVANNAH HAS LOST A GREAT MAN. THE ADLER FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS.
- CLARK AND JENNY LANE, SAVANNAH, GA
Emma and John - How sad this news makes me. I cannot begin to express how much I adored Lee. He was an inspiration to me in so many ways - with his most remarkable energy fueling so much good work. What a mark he left on Savannah and on the people around him. I feel incredibly grateful to have known him. Sending much love, Julie
- Julie Thomasson Mooney, Durham, NC
This morning I was deeply saddened to hear of Lee's passing. My prayers and sympathy are with you, Emma, in your time of great sorrow.
- Dale Fleck, Helena, MI
This morning I was deeply saddened to hear of Lee's passing. My prayers and sympathy are with you, Emma, in your time of great sorrow.
- Dale Fleck, Helena, MI
Michele and I are proud to have been numbered among Lee's friends....our thoughts are with the Adler family, Alex Raskin
- alex, michele raskin, savannah, GA
I am so sorry for your loss. Lee will certainly be missed in this community. He made many wonderful contributions in the historic arena.
- Martin Karp, Savannah, GA
Our first night in Savannah was as guests of Lee and Emma. Billy went to work with Lee at Varnadoe & Chisholm and that began a life long friendship. We agree completely, there was never a dull moment. A highlight of our time in Savannah was winning the Powder Puff fishing tournament with Lee as skipper of the Sweet Potato. We fell in love with Savannah due in large part to Lee's enthusiasm for his city which he shared with everyone who would listen. He was a treasure and we are so happy that he was part of our lives.
- Mary and Billy Burdell, St. Simons Island, GA
Emma, On behalf of Historic Savannah Foundation, please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of Lee. He was 'Mr. Preservation' to me, but also a friend and mentor. Lee was a world class booster for Savannah, and we and anyone who visits the Hostess City owe him a debt of gratitude for his vision and dedication to preserving and protecting our community's heritage. HSF will appropriately recognize his many contributions in the near future, but in the meantime please accept our condolences. With kind regards to you, John and all the Adlers.
- Daniel G. Carey, Savannah, GA
I worked right after graduating from college 1976 for Savannah Landmark and lived just across Monterey Square on East Taylor Street from the Adlers. It was a wonderful experience for me and an honor to work for Lee who was a mentor with incredible leadership and vision. I've thought often and fondly of my wonderful time with Lee and this organization. Lee left his mark on the world and not many can say that. My thoughts are with all of you at this sad time. My love to Emma and the family.
- Pam Hollings McConnell, Charleston, SC
All who love and work to preserve and beautify Savannah stand on the shoulders of a few giants, most especially Lee. What a treasure he was to this this city, what a visionary! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Emma. Warmly, Ardis and Ray Wood
- Ardis and Ray Wood, Savannah, GA
Lee Adler brought energy, ideas, and leadership into focus to preserve Savannah as both a built environment and community. It isn’t often that a city finds one individual capable of such a task, but Lee met the challenge. In his passing we have lost a monument, but in Savannah he has left us a monument to American historic preservation and a model for future generations as they shape the American experience. What a difference he made. May our thoughts and prayers bring comfort and peace to the Adler family in their time of loss.
- Nancy and John Beck, Conyers, GA
I met Mr Adler a few months ago when I sang and entertained the residents at the Oak on Skidaway Island. I was taken with his genuine smile and loving demeanor and was drawn to sing to him 'I'm in the Mood for Love'!! I was able to gaze into his eyes and saw his dear sweet soul smiling back at me. What a dear man!! Debi
- Debi Burk Scott, Savannah, GA
Shirley & I are full of memories of Lee & Emma and thanks for their many kindnesses. We will miss Lee and send solace to Emma
- Irving C. Sheldon, Saunderstown, RI
Dear Emma, I am so sorry to read of Lees passing.There was a time when the two of you were such influential people in my life. He did so much for his love, Savannah and he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to you. Fondly, Kitty
- Katharine Cook, Bluffton, SC
Dear Emma, I was deeply saddened to learn of Lee’s passing. Our sweet Savannah, like countless towns across the country, owes much of its enduring beauty and grandeur to Lee’s unwavering passion for preservation. Lee’s early support of SCAD helped the university to flourish, and SCAD’s Adler Hall will forever be a monument to his legacy. On behalf of the entire SCAD community, please accept my true condolences for your loss. I wish you and your family strength and solace now and forever. With love and sympathy,
- Paula Wallace, Savannah, GA
We are thinking about you during this very sad time. Please know that we have you in our prayers. Don and Judy Braun
- DON AND JUDY BRAUN, SAVANNAH, GA
Although many have contributed to the preservation of Savannah's unique historical environment, Lee Adler with Emma beside him was the leader responsible for the breadth and significant vision that have given the city its sense of place today. There are so many memories we all can share and I hope we will so something significant in his memory to keep his vision alive.
- Elizabeth A. Lyon Liz, Flowery Branch, GA
Lee was one of the great influences on my life. He mentored me starting in 1973, advised us hugely in our work to restore Historic Galveston TX and was always there with suggestions and support when I became VP, Programs of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. I think of him often, with the greatest gratitude and affection. Peter Brink
- Peter Brink, Norwich, VT
Please, accept my sincerest condolences upon the passing of Mr. Adler. His vital contributions to the greater Savannah community will long be remembered.
- Cynthia Farr Kinkel, Tybee Island, GA
Emma, We are thinking about you in this time of sorrow. -George & Shirley Oelschig
- George & Shirley Oelschig, Savannah, GA
I am so thankful to Lee who got me started in a career that spanned 40 years in historic preservation. He was my true mentor and friend who I respected so much for his paassion , creativity and leadership. If any one person is responsible for what Savannah has become today it is Lee Adler.
- J. Reid Williamson Jr, savannah, GA
Mrs. Adler: My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Mr. Adler was a brilliant man and a real gentleman.
- Philip Saraf, Savannah, GA
SAVANNAH HAS LOST A GREAT MAN. THE ADLER FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS.
- CLARK AND JENNY LANE, SAVANNAH, GA
Emma and John - How sad this news makes me. I cannot begin to express how much I adored Lee. He was an inspiration to me in so many ways - with his most remarkable energy fueling so much good work. What a mark he left on Savannah and on the people around him. I feel incredibly grateful to have known him. Sending much love, Julie
- Julie Thomasson Mooney, Durham, NC
This morning I was deeply saddened to hear of Lee's passing. My prayers and sympathy are with you, Emma, in your time of great sorrow.
- Dale Fleck, Helena, MI
This morning I was deeply saddened to hear of Lee's passing. My prayers and sympathy are with you, Emma, in your time of great sorrow.
- Dale Fleck, Helena, MI
Michele and I are proud to have been numbered among Lee's friends....our thoughts are with the Adler family, Alex Raskin
- alex, michele raskin, savannah, GA
I am so sorry for your loss. Lee will certainly be missed in this community. He made many wonderful contributions in the historic arena.
- Martin Karp, Savannah, GA
Our first night in Savannah was as guests of Lee and Emma. Billy went to work with Lee at Varnadoe & Chisholm and that began a life long friendship. We agree completely, there was never a dull moment. A highlight of our time in Savannah was winning the Powder Puff fishing tournament with Lee as skipper of the Sweet Potato. We fell in love with Savannah due in large part to Lee's enthusiasm for his city which he shared with everyone who would listen. He was a treasure and we are so happy that he was part of our lives.
- Mary and Billy Burdell, St. Simons Island, GA
Emma, On behalf of Historic Savannah Foundation, please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of Lee. He was 'Mr. Preservation' to me, but also a friend and mentor. Lee was a world class booster for Savannah, and we and anyone who visits the Hostess City owe him a debt of gratitude for his vision and dedication to preserving and protecting our community's heritage. HSF will appropriately recognize his many contributions in the near future, but in the meantime please accept our condolences. With kind regards to you, John and all the Adlers.
- Daniel G. Carey, Savannah, GA
I worked right after graduating from college 1976 for Savannah Landmark and lived just across Monterey Square on East Taylor Street from the Adlers. It was a wonderful experience for me and an honor to work for Lee who was a mentor with incredible leadership and vision. I've thought often and fondly of my wonderful time with Lee and this organization. Lee left his mark on the world and not many can say that. My thoughts are with all of you at this sad time. My love to Emma and the family.
- Pam Hollings McConnell, Charleston, SC
All who love and work to preserve and beautify Savannah stand on the shoulders of a few giants, most especially Lee. What a treasure he was to this this city, what a visionary! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Emma. Warmly, Ardis and Ray Wood
- Ardis and Ray Wood, Savannah, GA
Lee Adler brought energy, ideas, and leadership into focus to preserve Savannah as both a built environment and community. It isn’t often that a city finds one individual capable of such a task, but Lee met the challenge. In his passing we have lost a monument, but in Savannah he has left us a monument to American historic preservation and a model for future generations as they shape the American experience. What a difference he made. May our thoughts and prayers bring comfort and peace to the Adler family in their time of loss.
- Nancy and John Beck, Conyers, GA
I met Mr Adler a few months ago when I sang and entertained the residents at the Oak on Skidaway Island. I was taken with his genuine smile and loving demeanor and was drawn to sing to him 'I'm in the Mood for Love'!! I was able to gaze into his eyes and saw his dear sweet soul smiling back at me. What a dear man!! Debi
- Debi Burk Scott, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
