Jerry Irving Reitman

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Monica Reitman, daughters Jennifer Reitman and Sarah Reitman-Mirkes, and his older brother, Sam Reitman. He is preceded in death by his parents Benjamin and Ruth Reitman and his older sister, Rita Fox (Reitman).

Born on January 9, 1938 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jerry graduated from Penn State University with a degree in finance. A devoted husband and father, Jerry loved his wife and two daughters more than anything in the world. To Jerry, his family was everything and he expressed that in every way possible. He loved and was adored by his wife Monica’s extended family in Sweden—after Jerry retired he and Monica treasured spending their summers at their summer home outside of Stockholm. He loved traveling the world for business and pleasure with Monica throughout his life, with friends and colleagues across the globe.

Jerry is remembered by family and friends for his generosity, wisdom, and kindness. His enthusiasm for mentorship and sharing was infectious—he was always ready to give a piece of advice, lend a compassionate ear, or share a story with anyone willing to listen. For many, he was their surrogate dad. But he never wanted to impose, so Jerry would always stop midway to say “not to make a long story longer”—of course, he always did, but that was one of his most endearing qualities. Not least of all because he was a great storyteller. He also loved animals, and treasured all of the family dogs as well as his daughters’ pets.

Jerry boasted an enviably long and well-rounded career that spanned media, publishing, and advertising. He began in advertising sales at the publishing house Ziff Davis, followed by executive roles at Publishers Clearing House and Academic Media Company. In 1974, he joined the advertising agency, Oglivy & Mather as International Head and Executive Vice President, successfully growing Ogilvy from two offices to 26 offices over a four-year period. In 1982, Jerry was named CEO of Scali, McCabe, Sloves.

In 1985, Jerry joined Leo Burnett Worldwide as Executive Vice President, where he spent 15 fulfilled years with his many cherished colleagues and friends until he retired from the corporate world, and began other ventures. In 2000, Jerry published the book Beyond 2000: The Future of Direct Marketing, was a much sought-after speaker throughout his career, having received many awards for his work during his time as an advertising executive.

Jerry was extremely proud of the 20-plus years he served as chairman of the Board of Governors at the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals—his incredible work earned him the great honor of being invited to the White House in 2009 to meet with President Barack Obama.

An avid tennis player in his younger years, Jerry pivoted to woodworking after retirement which enabled him to give people his one-of-a-kind works. Even if you met him just once, Jerry would offer you one of his cutting boards, wooden butter knives, jewelry boxes, and salt bowls. There is a whole world of family, friends, and colleagues who treasure their not-so-handiwork gifts, made with love by Jerry Reitman.

Throughout his life, Jerry made a profound impact on those around him. His legacy of kindness, sense of justice, equity, and humanity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him and is a lasting gift to his cherished family. May his memory be a blessing.