Friends say they're saddened by the loss of Severin Fayerman, but his impact on Berks County will never be forgotten.
Fayerman, who died early Monday morning at the age of 92, was very involved with schools in Berks County, including Reading Area Community College, telling his story of survival and inspiring many generations of people over the years.
"I think he was a beautiful nice man. He helping so much. He gave a lot of things to organizations, and I think this is the best man I ever know," said Krystyna Zalewski.
Fayerman was a Holocaust survivor, businessman and inspiration to so many across Berks County.
The Poland native spent his teen years in Auschwitz and other Nazi concentration camps during World War II.
At the end of the war, he was released and emigrated with his family to America. Just a year later, in 1946, he founded Baldwin Hardware with his father and relocated to Reading.
And when Krystyna and her husband, Roman, came to America from Poland, Fayerman gave Roman and other immigrants a job.
"He knew everybody. He was on the floor everyday, talk to the people and try to help them," Roman said.
But beyond his success as a businessman, Fayerman was involved in the community. He served on the board of directors for the Berks County chapter of the American Red Cross, as well as on RACC's Foundation board for 24 years.
But some area leaders say, more importantly, he was determined to tell his story of survival.
"Writing his biography, making appearance and speaking with students to try to tell them so that that mission of never forget. He embodied that," said Pa. Sen. Judy Schwank. "I admired him so much."
Fayerman's friends told 69 News he had recently gotten sick and knew his time was coming to an end, but he was grateful for the life he lived.
"He had a good life. He did a lot of good things," Roman said. That's what he told me, and he's ready to go. He have a good things, helped a lot of people and he enjoyed his life."
RACC released a statement saying many of the faculty and students were inspired by Fayerman and considered him a wonderful advocate and friend.
"Many of us, including faculty, staff and students with whom he interacted were inspired by his personal story as a Holocaust survivor who eventually became a successful entrepreneur in the United States," said Anna Weitz, RACC's president.
We invite you to share your own memories or stories of meeting Severin Fayerman. Email us at yourtake@wfmz.com.
from 69News:Home http://ift.tt/1C6NEXS
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