David Joel Sokolow

David Joel Sokolow, 77, lost his hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer on Friday, April 13, 2018 surrounded by his beloved sister, brother, nephew and son. David was born on July 30, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois to Nat and Kay Sokolow. His younger brother Larry was born in 1942 and ten years later, the Sokolow boys welcomed a cherished little sister, Gail. The family moved to Miami in the mid 1950's where Nat opened and ran several businesses, including the legendary Bird Bowl. David had a lot of fun times working at Bird Bowl while he attended Coral Gables High School. After graduating Gables High, David attended the University of Miami and then served in the Coast Guard, where he did his basic training in Cape May, New Jersey. David returned to South Florida and had a long, loyal career with Eastern Airlines until his retirement. After his retirement, and long before Uber, David had a successful business in Pembroke Pines, FL where he transported senior citizens and assisted them with errands and medical appointments. Five years ago, he moved to Tallahassee to be closer to Larry and Gail, and his nieces and nephews whom he adored. He enjoyed being able to see his son Greg and daughter-in-law Kim more often during their visits to Tallahassee. In recent years David joined Larry's family on trips to Alaska and Chicago. As a life-long Cubs fan, he fulfilled a bucket list item of going on the field at Wrigley and meeting Cubs players and seeing the Cubs win the World Series. He was thrilled his grandson Trent shared his passion for the team. David also delighted in seeing his young granddaughter Sloane blossom and grow into a precocious adorable toddler. David's great-nephew, Gavin, and great-nieces, Kylie, Kendall and Jenna were his pride and joy. He was always there at their performances, games and events, such as the annual Grand People's Day at Maclay. Since his illness, his sister Gail provided an unwavering source of love, support and care. The Sokolow family is also eternally grateful to Amy, Madison and Chris, David's neighbors and friends, who were always there for him. David was predeceased by his partner, Irene Maloney. He is survived by his three children, Greg (Kim) Sokolow, Stephen (Mimi) Sokolow, Nicole (A.J.) Wilson, seven grandchildren Katie, Trent and Sloane Wilson; Yitzi, Sruli, Goldie and Sarah Sokolow; brother Larry (Beverly) Sokolow, sister Gail (Neil) McDonald; niece Dena (Jim Williams) Sokolow and nephew Kevin (Mary Jayne) Sokolow and his great-nieces and nephew, Kylie, Kendall, Gavin and Jenna Sokolow. There will be a graveside service at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 18th at MeadowWood Memorial Park on Timberlane Road. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Kelly Barber of Bevis Funeral Home in Tallahassee (850/385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the Sokolow family with their arrangements.

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David Joel Sokolow

July 30, 1940 - April 13, 2018