Larry Howard Gruntfest, founder and director of the Allied Players at the Allied Jewish Apartments, passed away Dec. 11, 2011, in Denver.
Cantor Joel Lichterman officiated at the Dec. 12 graveside service at Mt. Nebo Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Larry was loved by many and spent much of his life spreading joy to those around him, the family said. While the last years of his life were difficult, he was the first one to make an amusing remark and share his wry sense of humor.
His smile, sweet nature and thoughtful comments will be missed.
Mr. Gruntfest was born June 6, 1944, in Brooklyn. He earned a degree in English literature from Queens College.
After moving to Denver in the early 1980s, he founded the Allied Players and contributed many original plays to the group.
In addition to teaching English, German and theater, Mr. Gruntfest was an actor, a comedian, musician, poet and a regional Breslov Chassidus contact.
He also was a singer-waiter at Uncle Zalmans Kosher Emporium.
A magician, he enjoyed performing magic tricks for his nieces and nephews.
Mr. Gruntfest is survived by his sisters Marilyn (Jerry) Kopelman and Nancy (Alan) Manocherian; nieces and nephews Daniel, Aviva, Matthew, Alissa, Michael and Jesse; and great-nephews and great-nieces Lexi, Arianna, Travis, Reagan, Zoey and Violet.
Contributions may be made to Parkinson Research Foundation, www.parkinson.org, www.michaeljfox.org or any programs furthering Parkinsons research; or Mazon: A Jewish Response to Hunger.
Copyright © 2011 by the Intermountain Jewish News
