Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Orlando has lost another strongly influential and vibrant "doer" of the community. Mr. Harry "Hank" Katzen, 63, of Orlando, Florida passed away peacefully Friday, Jan. 26, 2024, in his home surrounded by his wife and children. Hank was born Sept. 1, 1960, in Bellefonte, Pa., to Marcus and Henrietta (Harris) Katzen.

Hank is survived by his loving family members - his wife, Marcie; his children, Malcolm Katzen, Max (Elana) Katzen, and Mason Katzen; his mother, Henrietta (Marcus z"l) Katzen; and his siblings, Hirsh Katzen (Melissa Marshall) and Halbert Katzen. His father, Marcus, predeceased him.

Hank graduated from DuBois High School in Pennsylvania and the State University of New York at Binghamton, then worked in the family real estate business.

He was a lifelong music lover, played guitar with many different friends and family throughout his life, and enjoyed seeing live music. He loved skiing, motorcycling, snowmobiling, fishing, traveling, and spending time with friends and loved ones.

He also dedicated much time and energy to a wide variety of charitable endeavors. When he married his wife, Marcie, in August 1990, he shared that it was her love of Judaism and family that flamed his passion for tradition, parenthood, and "a sense of obligation to be G-d's partner." Together, they raised three sons: Malcolm Alexander, Max David and Mason Ross, all of whom attended the Jewish Community Center's pre-school program and Jewish Academy of Orlando. All three graduated from college and are working in their chosen fields.

After he and Marcie wed, they moved to Altoona, Pa., where he served the community as a board member of Agudath Achim Synagogue, a board member of the Jewish Community Center, a Campaign co-chairman for the Altoona Jewish Federation, and co-chair of the UJC's General Campaign.

Hank got involved in the Greater Orlando Jewish Community upon arrival in 1993, making quality gifts, volunteering for leadership positions, and emphasizing overseas needs. After serving on Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando's Executive, Major Gifts, Religious Pluralism, Finance, Strategic Planning and Allocations, and Executive Search committees, he was awarded the Byron Selber Young Leadership Award.

He was proud of converting an empty building in the heart of Orlando into a premier downtown historic property. Similarly, he stewarded the conversion of an aging shopping center site into a modern dormitory and retail property across the street from UCF.

With his commitment and leadership, the Central Florida Hillel built a home at the University of Central Florida and Hank went on to serve on the International Hillel Board.

More than 250 people attended Katzen's funeral service on Jan. 29 at the Yank Frank Memorial Chapel at Temple Israel Cemetery with Rabbi Emeritus Aaron D. Rubinger of Congregation Ohev Shalom officiating.

Donations in Hank Katzen's memory may be sent to Central Florida Hillel or the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

May he rest in peace and may his memory always be a blessing.

Service entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 933 Lee Road, Suite 101, Orlando, Florida 407-599-1180.