Lew Sapiro
Lewis “Lew” Sapiro, 88, founder of Breeze Ski Company and a philanthropist, passed away May 14, 2021. Cantor Elizabeth Sacks officiated at the May 16 graveside service at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
“Lew was beloved by all who knew him,” said his wife Estelle Meskin. “He had a wonderful smile and a delightful sense of humor with people of all ages, especially children.
“He was a mensch who carried himself with class and grace; a role model for others.”
Mr. Sapiro was born in Milwaukee, Wis., and graduated from the University of Wisconsin as a CPA.
After serving in the Army in Germany, he worked in the finance industry in New York before coming to Colorado in the 1970s to start his business.
Mr. Sapiro parlayed Breeze Ski Co. into a huge enterprise with 54 stores nationwide. “He loved building the company, but was humble about its success,” his wife said.
The Special Olympics assumed high priority in his philanthropic endeavors. A board member of the Special Olympics from 2008 to 2014, the organization honored him as Volunteer of the Year in 2020.
Mr. Sapiro co-founded an organization for blind skiers in Vail, working side-by-side with them and teaching the sport.
On the boards of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains and The Denver Hospice, he was on the JFS finance committee.
Mr. Sapiro’s wife Joan predeceased him in 2007.
He later met Estelle Meskin, also widowed.
Married for four years, the couple shared a love of travel, dining out, skiing, tennis, theater, jazz, dance, socializing with friends, philanthropy and helping those in need.
Lew Sapiro is survived by his wife Estelle Meskin and her family; his sons Tom and Jim; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Special Olympics Colorado and to Temple Sinai.
Copyright © 2021 by the Intermountain Jewish News
